Applying Taguchi method for optimization of the synthesis condition of nano-porous alumina membrane by slip casting method

In this work thin disc type pure alumina membranes have been prepared by slip casting technique. The colloidal stabilization of micro-sized alumina suspensions with different amount of 1,2-dihydroxy-3,5-benzenedisulfonic acid disodium salt (Tiron) at various suspension concentration were examined and the suspension stability was characterized by measuring sedimentation height. Also the necessary ball milling time (used as a deflocculating process) to prepare defect free membranes was investigated. A statistical experimental design method (Taguchi method with L9 orthogonal array design) was implemented to optimize experimental conditions for the preparation of Al2O3 nano-porous membrane. Sintering temperature, solid content and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) content were recognized and selected as important effecting parameters. Also structural studies by means of isopropanol adsorption and scanning electron microscopy were carried out on membranes. As the result of Taguchi analysis in this study, sintering temperature was the most influencing parameter on the membrane porosity. Reasonable membrane characteristics were obtained at an optimum temperature of 1400 degrees C, 20% solid content and 20 cc PVA solution per 100 g of alumina powder. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.