Selection of performance indicators on dielectric strength and viscosity for chlorinated polyvinyl chloride with N-Methyl-2-pyrrolidone: Optimization using central composite design-response surface methodology

Abstract

N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone is a highly polar aprotic solvent that is frequently utilized across a broad range of applications in industry. The composition of chlorinated polyvinyl chloride is commonly flame-resistant and mechanically strong. In this research, the central composite design technique uses response surface methodology to perform a parametric study. The effect of the input variables wt.% (16%, 20%, 24%), stirring speed (300, 600, 900 r/min), and stirring time (20 min, 30 min, 40 min) on the output responses (dielectric strength kV/mm, and viscosity Pascal) were examined. The output responses were recorded during the experiments according to the experimental design. The factors impacting the response were identified through analysis of variance. According to the predicted vs. actual diagram, the confirmed experiments fit well with the predictions. Based on the response surface, the parameter interaction profile was analyzed. According to the contour plots related to each interaction, the maximum value can be achieved within different stirring parameters. Based on the result of optimization, the optimum values of dielectric strength and viscosity were found in (wt.% of chlorinated polyvinyl chloride—18.101%), (stirring speed—664 r/min), (stirring time—21.860 min). The output response obtained from the response surface methodology is the dielectric strength (18.5 kV/mm) and viscosity (37.67 Pa).