Optimization of ABS Latex Coagulation using Taguchi Method and Mathematical Modeling for Percent Particles Size Distribution

Abstract

In this paper, the optimization of particles size distribution (PSD) in the coagulation processes of Acrylonitrile- Butadiene- Styrene (ABS) latex was studied using H2SO4 as coagulant agent. The effects of parameters such as; temperature, agitation speed, coagulant agent concentration, the ratio of latex to coagulant agent and residence time on coagulation process were investigated and optimized using Taguchi experimental design. Based on Taguchi method, sixteen experiments were designed and performed to get optimum conditions of effective factors. The optimum conditions for the selected factors were obtained as: temperature (95°C); coagulant concentration (2% wt); residence time (10 min); agitation speed (180 rpm) and latex to coagulant volume ratio (1:1). According to the results, latex to coagulant volume ratio was the main factor having significant effects on the particles size distribution of the ABS. In the optimal conditions, coagulated particles with narrow in particles size distribution (220-280 ?m) were prepared. An equation with 5 main parameters for predicting particles size distribution in the range of 220-280 ?m with good compatibility and correlations between its results and experimental data was derived.