Sustainable Hydrogen Production: A Decision-Making Approach Using VIKOR and Intuitionistic Hypersoft Sets

In decision-making scenarios, challenges often arise from closely knitted criteria or inherent uncertainties. Such uncertainties prominently pervade the realm of sustainable energy, particularly concerning hydrogen generation systems. A critical need is identified to elucidate the efficiency, costs, and environmental implications of these technologies as a shift towards a low-carbon economy is pursued. In this study, the interdependencies among decision-making variables were examined, revealing their collective influence and correlations. By utilizing the framework of Intuitionistic Hypersoft Sets (IHSSs), uncertainties were addressed, multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) was harnessed, technological selection was facilitated, resource allocation was optimized, and environmental ramifications were assessed. The primary objective of this research was to decipher the conundrum of choosing among multiple hydrogen production methodologies. Such an approach fosters the adoption of environmentally conducive hydrogen production methods, heralding a shift towards a greener energy future. Notably, further research could probe into methodologies like AHP and TOPSIS in a neutrosophic context, offering tantalizing avenues for exploration.


Introduction
In 1965, the theory of fuzzy set and membership was first introduced by Zadeh [1]. This pioneering work rapidly garnered attention and subsequently laid the foundation for myriad technologies integral to modern convenience. It was posited that membership values could be categorized into four distinct forms: single-valued fuzzy numbers, multiple-valued fuzzy numbers, bipolar fuzzy numbers, interval-valued fuzzy numbers, and rough sets. Consequently, new set structures emerged, including the single-valued fuzzy set (SVFS), multiple-valued fuzzy set (MVFS), bi-polar fuzzy set (BPS), Turksen IVFS (interval-valued fuzzy set), m-polar interval-valued fuzzy set (m-PIVFS), and fuzzy rough set (FRS) [2][3][4][5][6][7].
Expanding upon traditional fuzzy set theory, intuitionistic sets, or more commonly, intuitionistic fuzzy sets (IFS), were developed in the mid-1980s [8]. Unlike conventional fuzzy sets which employ solely membership values, IFS integrates membership, non-membership, and a hesitation value. This hesitation value captures the inherent ambiguity or uncertainty regarding set membership, thus making IFS more apt at managing situations with inadequate data for precise membership value determination. Consequently, by considering both membership and non-membership degrees, intuitionistic sets offer a robust framework for addressing ambiguities in decision-making processes.
Operational rules and decision-making methodologies for MCDM were subsequently introduced as an extension of IFS, leading to the development of the Pythagorean fuzzy set (PFS) [9,10]. In an endeavor to address uncertain and inconsistent scenarios, Smarandache [11] introduced the neutrosophic set (NS) in 1998 [12]. An amalgamation of intuitionistic fuzzy and soft sets was later formulated, termed intuitionistic fuzzy soft set (IFSS), which encompasses parameters denoting data validity and promotes optimized decision-making [13].
Application of intuitionistic sets in fields like pattern recognition, HR selection, and medical diagnosis has been recorded. For instance, intuitionistic sets have been implemented in medical diagnostics by De et al. [14], while similarity metrics using IFS were proposed by Liang and Shi [15]. Further, Ejegwa et al. [16] employed intuitionistic https://doi.org/10.56578/jimd020303 sets for career determination, and similarity measures alongside pattern recognition methodologies were presented by Li [17]. Notable works by Szmidt and Kacprzyk [18] and Wei et al. [19] delved into entropy similarity measures and group decision-making using IFS respectively. Jafar et al. [20] undertook a comprehensive exploration of IFSM applications, and Mitchell [21] examined similarity measures in the context of pattern recognition. A more comprehensive framework, the hypersoft set theory, was put forth by Smarandache [22] in 2018 as an extension of soft sets. This new theory adeptly navigates ambiguities, thus enriching decision-making processes. Significant studies on the application of IHSSs have been carried out by Zulqarnain et al. [23], and Yolcu and Ozturk [24] introduced fuzzy hypersoft sets, elucidating their relevance in decision-making. To bolster decision-making, Debnath [25] proposed the weightage operator for fuzzy hypersoft sets, and an extension termed intuitionistic fuzzy hypersoft sets (IFHSS) was presented by Yolcu et al. [26]. The potential of aggregate operators for IFHSS and interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy hypersoft sets (IVIFHSS) in addressing MCDM problems was explored by Zulqarnain et al. [27,28]. Other set structures and their applications have also been examined by researchers [29][30][31][32][33].
In the realm of sustainable energy, hydrogen production techniques play a pivotal role. Recognized as a clean and versatile energy source, hydrogen has been explored extensively as a potential solution to challenges posed by greenhouse gas emissions and climate change [34]. Methods for hydrogen production encompass electrolysis, biomass gasification, steam methane reforming (SMR), and solar-powered water splitting. Among these, electrolysis, particularly when powered by renewable sources such as solar and wind, has been identified as the most environmentally advantageous, producing hydrogen devoid of harmful emissions [35]. The inclusion of hydrogen in energy systems has been viewed as instrumental in mitigating dependence on fossil fuels, paving the way for a sustainable energy transition. Thus, emphasis is laid on the reduction of environmental impacts of hydrogen production techniques [36]. Intuitionistic sets have been suggested as valuable tools for addressing challenges in green contexts, especially concerning sustainable energy sources like hydrogen production. Through the harnessing of intuitionistic sets, uncertainties are addressed, MCDM is enhanced, technology selection is optimized, resources are allocated efficiently, and environmental repercussions are assessed, steering the path towards an ecologically sustainable energy future [37].

Preliminaries
This section delineates fundamental definitions pivotal to the paper's framework, focusing on Hypersoft Sets (HSS) and IHS's.

Definition: Hypersoft Set [22]
Let the universal and power set of the universal set be denoted as µ and P (µ) respectively. Given the sequence i 1 , i 2 , i 3 , . . . , i n where n ≥ 1 and n represents well-defined attributives, the corresponding attributive elements are arranged in the sequence £ 1 , £ 2 , £ 3 , . . . , £ n . Here, it is required that £ i ∩ £ j = ∅ for all i ̸ = j with i, j ∈ {1, 2, 3 . . . n}. The pair (ξ, £), under these conditions, is referred to as a hypersoft set, and can be represented as:

Aggregate Operators of IHS's
Complexities arise in decision-making problems due to their multidimensional nature, encompassing multiple attributes or even subsequent subdivisions. Such intricacies have been observed to be beyond the capabilities of the intuitionistic soft set alone. Hence, the need for a novel approach was recognized. In this context, certain aggregate operators have been defined.

Definition
Let E be the initial universe of discourse and P(E) is the set of all possibilities of E. Suppose h 1 , h 2 , h 3 . . . . . . . . . h n where n ≥ 1 be n distinct attributes whose corresponding attributive values respectively the sets where, µ is the value of membership and γ is the value of non-membership such that µ : and also 0 < µ(F (α)) + γ(F (α)) < 2.

Example
In contemporary, high-velocity professional landscapes, the optimal selection of a laptop has been identified as paramount for those desiring enhanced productivity coupled with seamless mobility. In this particular study, a technologically-oriented consulting firm's approach to determining the ideal laptop for a diverse cadre of remote staff was examined. Criteria and variables employed in this selection process were scrutinized. Among the factors assessed were performance, portability, battery longevity, software compatibility, and fiscal constraints.
This investigation illuminated the intricate interplay between hardware specifications and pragmatic operational needs that underpins such decisions. Consequently, insights are provided that may guide both individuals and entities in navigating the expansive spectrum of laptop options. Let E represent the set of laptops being considered.
Also consider the set of attributes:
Then Intuitionistic fuzzy hypersoft set of above assumed relation is:

Definition: Union of a Two IHS ′ s
Suppose F (α 1 ) and F (α 2 ) be two IHS ′ s over E.

Definition: Intersection of a Two IHS ′ s
Suppose F (α 1 ) and F (α 2 ) be two IHS ′ s over E.

The VIKOR Method
The VIKOR Method, a technique within the realm of Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM), was established by Serafim Opricovic in 1979. Within this framework, a compromise solution to conflicting criteria is sought. In the VIKOR process, alternatives are systematically evaluated based on predetermined criteria. Subsequently, they are ranked in a way that ensures the compromise solution closely approximates the ideal solution.
Step 3: Calculation of Ideal Solution (IS).
Step 4: Computation of S i , R i , and Q i .
Step 5: Final Ranking To rank the alternative, list the values of S i , R i , and Q i in ascending order.

Case Study
In the pursuit of identifying the most optimal and cost-effective hydrogen production technology, a comprehensive case study was undertaken. This exhaustive investigation entailed multiple phases, from the selection of diverse alternatives to the meticulous establishment of a coherent criteria system, and subsequent data collection. Eight distinct hydrogen production technologies were rigorously assessed within the confines of this study, with an emphasis placed on their overarching descriptions. Through an extensive review of existing literature in this domain, seven pivotal criteria, spanning both cost and performance dimensions, were delineated. The collated data instrumental to this analysis is encapsulated in Table 1. Table 1. Statistical overview of hydrogen production technologies up to 2013 The weights are calculated using the entropy method. w1 = 0.2544; w2 = 0.0453; w3 = 0.0620; w4 = 0.2874; w5 = 0.1415; w6 = 0.1703; w7 = 0.0391.
Step 1: DM is presented in Table 2.
Step 2: Normalization of DM is presented in Table 2. Table 2. Normalize decision matrix of case study Step 3: Weighted normalization of DM is presented in Table 3. Table 3. Weighted normalize decision matrix of case study Step 5: Q i , S i and R i is calculated and presented in Table 4.
Step 6: Order the alternatives, listed by the values Q i , S i and R i .
In accordance with the specified ranking criteria, alternative A 3 emerges as the optimal choice. For the evaluation of divergent hydrogen generation technologies, the research integrates the intuitionistic hypersoft set methodology with the VIKOR multi-criteria decision-making approach. This synthesis unveils the merits and limitations of various techniques, both from technical and sustainability viewpoints. By conducting a meticulous analysis, a hierarchical order of the scrutinized methodologies is established, empowering decision-makers with the capability to select premier solutions predicated upon a spectrum of factors, encompassing efficacy, environmental repercussions, and economic feasibility. The research contributes to the evolution of hydrogen production strategies by offering a systematic juxtaposition, facilitating stakeholders to align decisions with sustainability goals and the latest technological advancements.

Conclusions
Amidst uncertainties characterizing hydrogen production technologies, the horizon of sustainable energy presents both formidable challenges and potential. The principal objective of this investigation was to discern a solution for the selection from an array of hydrogen generation methodologies. By advocating environmentally benign hydrogen production techniques, the pathway toward a future hallmarked by sustainability and ecological balance is illuminated. Through the amalgamation of the VIKOR Method with the intuitionistic hypersoft set approach, intricate interrelationships between diverse criteria and the evaluated methodologies are comprehensively understood. Stakeholders are endowed with pivotal insights concerning the strengths and weaknesses of each approach from the revelations of the analysis, thus fostering informed decision-making. This research not only augments the domain of eco-friendly hydrogen production but accentuates the imperative of deploying avant-garde decision-making methodologies in grappling with intricate dilemmas pertinent to energy and environmental sustainability. As the urgency for pristine energy sources escalates, the findings of this study stand as a quintessential guidepost for shaping future hydrogen production strategies in more efficacious and sustainable directions.
As the vista unfolds, exploration of contemporary methods such as AHP and TOPSIS within a neutrosophic framework appears promising. Such inquiries hold the potential to broaden understanding and refine decision-making processes. The anticipation is for an era where sustainable energy transitions from an aspirational concept to a palpable reality, reshaping the very essence of our planet through relentless research, innovation, and collaboration.

Data Availability
The data used to support the research findings are available from the corresponding author upon request.