Statistical optimization of melt-quenching process parameters for multiple properties of ternary barium phosphate glasses

In the present work simultaneous optimization of density, refractive index and hardness (multiple performance characteristics) of ternary barium phosphate glasses has been carried out using Taguchi based grey relational analysis. Effect of the parameters such as CaF₂ content, melting temperature and melting time on the response parameters of (50 - X)BaO-XCaF₂-50P₂O₅ (X = 0, 10, 20 mol%) glasses prepared according to the experimental layout of Taguchi's standard orthogonal array has been studied. Highest grey relational grade is the performance criteria used in this study to indicate the optimum level of process parameters needed for the best multiple performance characteristics. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) conducted on grey relational grade shows that under 95% confidence level, CaF₂ content is the only parameter significantly affecting multiple performance characteristics. Experimental values of response parameters obtained by conducting the confirmatory experiment at optimum level of process parameters are closer to the optimal set of predicted values.