Multivariate experimental methodology for the evaluation of sample preparation techniques used in simultaneous multielemental analysis using total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy Original Research Article

Modern instrumental methods of analysis now make large number of analytical measurements possible which if their full potential is to be realised require analytical protocols that are capable of isolating trends and features within and between analytical samples. Accessing such information requires good multivariate data acquisition and processing techniques and whilst considerable effort has been made in recent years to develop multivariate data calibration procedures, the selection of an appropriate sample preparation and instrumental measurement methodology remains an important and as yet less well studied feature of such analytical procedures. This paper describes a relatively simple but effective multivariate data analysis approach, based on cluster and principal components analysis, for identifying a suitable calibration procedure, matrix modifier and sample drying preparation methods for the simultaneous multi-elemental analysis of aqueous samples by TXRF.