The rheological properties optimization of fumed silica dispersions using statistical experimental design and taguchi method

Abstract

The rheological properties of fumed silica filled Bis-GMA dispersions were analyzed using statistical experimental design and Taguchi method. Viscosity and shear thinning property were considered as the rheological properties. Silica content, silane concentration, diluent concentration, shear rate, and temperature were chosen as significant factors. Statistical experimental design using analysis of variance and orthogonal array was applied to optimize the viscosity of the dispersions, and Taguchi's parameter design was simultaneously performed to analyze the shear thinning property of the dispersions. Shear rate, silica content, and γ-MPS concentration showed major effects on the viscosity, and silica contents and γ-MPS concentration also had principal effects on shear thinning property of the fumed silica dispersions. Diluent concentration was determined as the only insignificant factor concerning the viscosity, while the temperature was the sole factor not to influence the shear thinning property of the dispersion. Optimum viscosity condition and less shear thinning condition were also determined using statistical experimental design and Taguchi method.