Linear algorithms for stretched exponential decay analysis

Several non-iterative algorithms for the analysis of stretched exponential decay are proposed. Decay parameters are obtained by standard linear optimi zation methods, providing reasonable accuracy, high speed of processing and independence of the initial guesses. The latter feature ensures an excelle nt possibility to use them for generating initial guesses for iterative pro cedures, rendering the minimum search more reliable and faster. Proposed al gorithms were investigated by fitting simulated data and then used for the analysis of fluorescence and anisotropy decays of dimethylaminonitrostilben e molecules dissolved in polymethyl methacrylate films. (C) 1999 Published by Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.