Abstract:
A LIBS analyzer (2) comprises a focusing lens arrangement (6); a laser (8) for propagating a laser beam (L) through the focusing lens arrangement (6) to be focused at its focal plane (F); a detector (10) for generating optical intensity data; a translation mechanism (22) for varying a location of the focal plane (F); and a controller (14) for automatically controlling the translation mechanism (22) to achieve an optimum position where the focal plane (F) and an upper surface (18) of a sample (20) are coincident, as calculated by the controller (14) from an application of a mathematical transform, correlating optical intensity with optimum position, to optical intensity data from plasma created by the laser beam (L).
Abstract:
A method (2) for preparing a sample of organic material for laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) comprising the steps of obtaining granular organic material (4); forming at least a portion of the granular organic material into a sample pellet (6); and of searing the organic material (8, 8'), preferably only at a surface on which LIBS analysis is to be performed (8). Optionally the method (2) includes a step (10) of pressing the seared sample pellet to consolidate the material comprising the seared upper surface.
Abstract:
Method of Analysing Foodstuff Samples Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy A method of analysing a foodstuff sample using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy, comprising: ashing the foodstuff sample to generate an ash residue (Step 2); and forming the ash residue into a pellet (Step 3) by: loading into a die at least a portion of the ash residue (Step 3a) and a support material as a layer covering a second surface of the ash residue opposite a first surface (Step 3c); and compressing the ash residue and the support material in the die to form a layered pellet (Step 3d).