Trace analytical performance, epistemology and engineering creativity

Analytics is a professional and systematic compilation of instances for the inference of problem solving truths. Relevant analytical results are the starting point of inductive learning in engineering. In the semiconductor industry, diagnostic investigations must be based on both process and product monitoring using trace-analytical methods. The analyst’s strive for detection power and an increasing number of analytes are the key and flywheel of engineering knowledge. Received: 9 October 1995 / Accepted: 14 May 1996