Experimental design and z-score results are useful tools for optimizing instrumental neutron activation analysis procedures

Abstract

In this study 2k experimental designs were used for the optimization of an instrumental neutron activation analysis method for the determination of bromine, chlorine, magnesium, manganese, potassium, sodium and vanadium in biological matrix materials. Depending on radionuclide half-lives, 23 or 24 experimental designs were used with irradiation time, sample–detector distance, counting time and sample decay time as factors. Gamma ray spectrometer, comparator mass fraction and sample mass were kept constant. Optimized irradiation and measurement conditions were established based on the experimental design results that used z-scores as response on a reference material for the various elements and experimental conditions.