Efficiency in Research, Development, and Production: The Statistical Design and Analysis of Chemical Experiments

The classic research method of changing only one variable from one experiment to the next can yield important information, but it can also be inefficient and the results only partial. Changing only a single variable means that interaction effects due to two or more variables cannot be detected. The key to efficient identification of significant variables and interactions, and in optimizing processes and products, lies in the statistical techniques of experimental design. Efficiency in Research, Development and Production introduces the most important statistical techniques for experimental design, as well as the most widely applicable procedures to analyse the experimental results. Acting as a workbook, it proceeds through a series of explanations, worked examples, discussions, and practical exercises with brief answers, giving the reader a clear understanding of the scope and limitations of each procedure, as well as the ability to design their own powerful, relevant and economical experiments. This book provides an understanding and consideration of the subject from the viewpoints of the research chemist, the development chemist, the control analyst and the production supervisor and will prove an invaluable aid to both new and experienced experimenters in many different branches of chemistry.