Recent Developments in Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) is a portable and in situ analytical technique that utilizes a highly focused laser pulse to create a plasma on the surface of a sample (1). When the laser hits the material, it ablates a small amount, producing a high-temperature plasma (1). As the plasma cools, it emits light that is characteristic of the elemental composition of the sample (1).

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Below is a compilation of recent studies we covered that used LIBS in their analysis. Happy reading!

Using LIBS to Gauge the Hardness of Steel Rails

Steel rails are vital components in infrastructure projects, playing a crucial role in the development and efficiency of transportation systems. Its durability and strength make it ideal for supporting the heavy loads and high speeds associated with modern railways (2). By providing a smooth and stable surface, steel rails enhance the safety and reliability of train operations, reducing maintenance costs and minimizing downtime. Moreover, the longevity of steel rails, which can last decades with proper care, makes them a cost-effective solution in the long term. Additionally, steel is a recyclable material, aligning with sustainable practices and environmental considerations (2). The integration of steel rails into infrastructure projects not only supports economic growth by improving transportation efficiency but also promotes sustainability and resilience in public transit systems (2). A recent study from Southwest Jiaotong University in Chengdu, China, examines using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) to analyze the sturdiness of steel rails used in infrastructure projects (2).

Accurate Measurement of Heavy Metals in Soil Using SC-LIBS

Environmental pollution poses a significant threat due to human activities and manifests in various forms such as air, water, soil, noise, and light. Spectroscopy is crucial in addressing environmental pollution by detecting heavy metals in soil, which pose risks to human health (3). According to the authors of a new study, laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) can contribute to the solution (3).

LIBS System Built on Microjoule High PRF Laser Identifies Aluminum Alloys for Recycling Potential

Differing grades of aluminum alloys have large differences in their composition, especially when it comes to trace elements, emphasizing the need for them to be evaluated for means of production, use, and recycling (4).

Unraveling Plasma-Wall Interaction for Fusion Reactors: Advancements in LIBS Depth Profiling for Multilayer Deposition Materials

This experiment employed laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) to enhance the accuracy of depth profiling in plasma-facing materials, paving the way for improved understanding of plasma-wall interactions in nuclear fusion reactors (5). This study revealed new information on the intricate patterns of erosion and deposition occurring in the plasma-facing materials (PFMs) of magnetic confinement fusion devices (5).

Study Reveals Laser Technique’s Role in Monitoring Concrete Corrosion

A recent study from Xi'an Jiaotong University in Xi'an, China, explored questions of structural integrity and how to make structures or buildings safer. One factor that threatens the structural integrity of a building is concrete corrosion because of chloride ingress (6). By using LIBS as an in-situ technique, the team showed that LIBS can be a reliable method for assessing cement distribution in concrete profiles (6).

References

(1) McMillan, N. Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS). Carleton.Edu. Available at: https://serc.carleton.edu/msu_nanotech/methods/libs.html#:~:text=Laser%2DInduced%20Breakdown%20Spectroscopy%20(LIBS)%20is%20a%20rapid%2C,(fingerprint)%20of%20a%20material. (accessed 2024-05-16).

(2) Wetzel, W. Using LIBS to Gauge the Hardness of Steel Rails. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/using-libs-to-gauge-the-hardness-of-steel-rails (accessed 2024-05-16).

(3) Spectroscopy Staff. Accurate Measurement of Heavy Metals in Soil Using SC-LIBS. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/accurate-measurement-of-heavy-metals-in-soil-using-sc-libs (accessed 2024-05-16).

(4) Lavery, P. LIBS System Built on Microjoule High PRF Laser Identifies Aluminum Alloys for Recycling Potential. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/libs-system-microjoule-high-prf-laser-aluminum-alloys-recycling-potential (accessed 2024-05-16).

(5) Spectroscopy Staff. Unraveling Plasma-Wall Interaction for Fusion Reactors: Advancements in LIBS Depth Profiling for Multilayer Deposition Materials. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/unraveling-plasma-wall-interaction-fusion-reactors-advancements-libs-depth-profiling-multilayer-deposition-materials (accessed 2024-05-16).

(6) Spectroscopy Staff. Study Reveals Laser Technique’s Role in Monitoring Concrete Corrosion. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/study-reveals-laser-technique-s-role-in-monitoring-concrete-corrosion (accessed 2024-05-16).