using taguchi method to optimize recovery of bismuth by electrolysis

this paper presents a methodology, based on the taguchi parameter design approach, for the optimization of process parameters for bismuth recovery from aqueous solutions. the process parameters considered are [bi3+], [nacl], temperature, and cathodic current density. in addition, cell voltage and current efficiency as two responses have been considered. an orthogonal array l9, the signal-to-noise (s/n) ratio, and the analysis of variance were used to analyze the effect of selected process parameters and their levels. from a metallurgical point of view, the separation and recovery of bismuth from a bismuth glance concentrate through leaching, purification and electrowining of chloride solutions were carried out. the optimum conditions for the selected parameter values were found as [bi3+] (75 g/l), [nacl] (25 g/l), temperature (65°c) and current density (100 a/m2). finally, a mathematical model has been proposed and the results of a confirmatory run are reported to verify the results, which indicate that this methodology is more efficient in optimizing the process parameters.