Modification and optimization of nano-crystalline Al2O3 combustion synthesis using Taguchi L16 array

Abstract Nanocrystalline Al2O3 powders have been synthesized by combustion method using 8 new fuels. The effectiveness of important factors on the production of nanopowders was investigated and optimized using Taguchi L16 array design. The products were characterized by XRD, BET, TGA, EDX, FESEM, and TEM analyses. Results demonstrated that the alumina nanoparticles had crystallite sizes between 8.31 nm and 13.54 nm. The optimized sample had the specific surface area of 72 m2/g and crystallite size of 7.25 nm. The synthesis of γ-alumina was modified in order to achieve higher specific surface area (122.63 m2/g). A nano-network of alumina powders woven by alumina nano-fibers has been fabricated successfully by modified combustion synthesis. The length and diameter of fibers were about 160 nm and 10 nm respectively.