Improvement of the measurement process used for the dynamic mechanical characterisation of polyolefin foams in compression

A Taguchi experimental design has been used to improve the measurement proc ess utilised in a dynamic mechanical analyser (Perkin Elmer DMA7) for the c haracterisation of polyolefin foams in compression. The measurement process has been analysed in a systematic way, which allows identification of the main factors that influence the variability of tests performed under the sa me repeated conditions. By applying the Taguchi methodology, the combinatio n of the levels of the control factors that make the measurement process le ast influenced by external factors has been obtained. (C) 2001 Elsevier Sci ence Ltd. All rights reserved.