Hybrid fuzzy and optimal modeling for water quality evaluation

Abstract

Water quality evaluation entails both randomness and fuzziness. Two hybrid models are developed, based on the principle of maximum entropy (POME) and engineering fuzzy set theory (EFST). Generalized weighted distances are defined for considering both randomness and fuzziness. The models are applied to 12 lakes and reservoirs in China, and their eutrophic level is determined. The results show that the proposed models are effective tools for generating a set of realistic and flexible optimal solutions for complicated water quality evaluation issues. In addition, the proposed models are flexible and adaptable for diagnosing the eutrophic status. Copyright 2007 by the American Geophysical Union.