Handheld LIBS
The acceptance of handheld LIBS for in-field geochemistry is accelerating. LIBS or Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy is an analytical technique where, using a laser, a plasma is created on the sample. As the plasma cools characteristic photons are emitted and measured to determine elemental presence and concentration at the sampled location. The SciAps Z features the most advanced LIBS technology of any handheld. The Z utilizes the most powerful laser, operating at 5-6 mJ/pulse, up to 50 Hz rep rate, Class 3B 1064nm wavelength. The spectrometer range of 190 nm out to 950 nm delivers full periodic table coverage. The patented OPTi-purgeTM integrated argon gas purge (optional) yields better limits of detection for many elements compared to air-based analysis. Internal 3D stage raster the laser allowing for surgical analysis of inclusions or veins if desired, all easily viewed through the integrated camera and laser targeting.
The Z analyzes elements FPXRF can’t
The Z offers greatly improved analysis of several major elements compared to FPXRF
The Key to Precise Alloy Chemistry. LIBS (Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) is an optical emission technique – like spark optical emission spectroscopy (OES). LIBS uses a laser to generate the plasma rather than an electric spark. Like OES, LIBS offers precise chemistry and ability to measure low concentrations (0.01-0.1%) reliably only when used with argon purge. Air based analysis offered by other HH LIBS, while available with the Z, only provides very basic alloy sorting. Precision and detection limits improve by up to 10x with argon purge.
