Experimental data analysis: A guide to the selection of simple statistical tests

The statistical analysis of data from leaching experiments is discussed and the potential pitfalls of inadequate experimental design are highlighted. A protocol for the selection of a suitable statistical test is proposed (based on a finite number of statistical methods) and presented as a flowsheet to assist those workers not familiar with statistical interference. Discussion of experimental design includes brief sections on error analysis (which uses the example of the preparation, sampling and analysis of solutions removed from a batch bioleach shake flask experiment), reproducibility of data (including a discussion on the applicability of replicate experiments) and the analysis of data trends. An example of data analysis using the aforementioned methodologies is illustrated and conclusions drawn, based on statistical analysis of the data, as to the implications of the specific test conditions. The authors intend the paper to provide the basis for improved experimental design incorpoerating statistical analysis of the final data set(s).