An Objective Function for Optimization Techniques in Simultaneous Multiple-Element Analysis by Inductively Coupled Plasma Spectrometry

This work considers several composite objective functions and uses the sequential simplex optimization technique to evaluate the performance of a proposed objective function in locating optimal instrumental operating conditions for simultaneous multiple-element determinations by inductively coupled plasma spectrometry. The proposed objective function, combined with a generalized approach to optimization, can be applied to any group of analysis elements and is of value in routine optimization procedures for simultaneous multiple-element methods of analysis.