Parameters Optimization Based on the Taguchi Robust Design for the Synthesis of CuO–ZnO Nanocomposite Using the Surfactant-Assisted Coprecipitation Method

Abstract

The Taguchi robust design method with L8 (27) orthogonal array was implemented to optimize experimental conditions for the preparation of a CuO–ZnO nanocomposite using a surfactant-assisted coprecipitation method. Calcination temperature, molarities of Cu and Zn ions, pH at the end of precipitation, capping agent, drying temperature, microwave power, and precipitating agent were chosen as main parameters. It was found that the capping agent was the main factor on the specific surface area of CuO–ZnO nanocomposite. The synthesized particles were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), laser light scattering (LLS), BET surface analyzer, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), x-ray diffraction (XRD), and energy dispersive x-ray (EDX). By the optimization of a coprecipitation method, CuO–ZnO nanocomposite (particle size 19.1 nm and specific surface area 102.1 m2/g) with a narrow particle size distribution was prepared.