Optimization of morphology and particle size of modified sol gel synthesized YSZ nano powder using taguchi method

The morphology and particle size of yttria stabilized zirconia (YSZ) nanopowders synthesized by Pechini's method are very much dependent on the type of chelating agent, pH of solution, calcinations temperature, calcinations time, etc. In the present study, the influence of process parameters like the type of zirconium salt, pH of solution, calcinations temperature and time on the morphology and particle size of a YSZ nanopowder was analyzed by the Taguchi Design method and analysis of variance (ANOVA). According to the experimental results and ANOVA, the pH of solution and calcinations temperature are the most significant factors influencing the morphology and particle size of YSZ nanopowder; pH of solution is the most significant factor influencing the morphology; and calcinations temperature is the most significant factor affecting the particle size. Models were developed for predicting the morphology and particle size of the YSZ nanopowder. They were found to be in good agreement with the experimental results. The models were tested for experimental conditions and were found to be close to predicted values. Both morphology and particle size of YSZ nanopowders were mainly dependent on the pH of solution.