Evaluation of NAA procedures by means of information theory

This work gives a survey of the use of information theory in optimization of neutron activation analysis (NAA) procedures. In an introductory part the principles of information theory are briefly outlined. Then, particular examples of the use of information theory are given: optimization of irradiation, counting and decay times in multielement NAA by means of the INFO program, investigation of the influence of measurement bias on information properties in gamma-ray spectrometry, evaluation of different standardization procedures including the k0 comparator technique, optimization of separation procedures in NAA measurements in NAA, choosing of an appropriate reference material for quality assurance in NAA and investigation of the role of interferences in NAA. Application of information theory in NAA can lead to interesting and valuable results especially in optimization of NAA methodology. This approach can often save both time and money otherwise spent on unnecessary irradiation and measurements