Multi-objective optimization of weight reduction process parameters of micropolyester woven fabrics using Taguchi gray relational analysis

Abstract

The weight loss process variables of alkali-treated micropolyester woven fabrics were optimized and reported in this study. The gray relational analysis with the help of the Taguchi technique was efficiently used to optimize the key variables of this process. The caustic soda concentration, treatment temperature, and weight loss machine speed were considered the control or design parameters. The weight reduction percentage, air permeability, tensile strength, and thermal resistance of alkali-treated woven polyester fabrics were also considered as responses in this study. The experiments were implemented according to a 3³ full factorial design. The levels of the control parameters which yield the maximum weight reduction, tensile strength, air permeability, and minimum thermal resistance of the treated polyester fabrics were found to be the sodium hydroxide concentration, and treatment temperature with the highest levels, and machine speed with the lowest level. This means that a 27% caustic soda concentration, treatment temperature of 125°C, and machine speed of 40 m/min exhibited the optimum properties of the treated micropolyester fabrics. It was also proved that the treatment temperature is the most influential factor affecting the micropolyester fabric’s properties. The confirmation test, which was carried out in this study, confirmed that the gray relational analysis improved the alkali-treated polyester fabric properties.