Summary of - Role of geometric configurations in optimizing the LIBS signal enhancement

Document Type

Article

Abstract

Study Background: The research presented in "Role of geometric configurations in optimizing the LIBS signal enhancement" by Keerthi K, Sajan Daniel George, Rajesh Nayak, Santhosh Chidangil, and Unnikrishnan VK explores methodologies to enhance trace elemental detection and reproducibility in Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS). The study compares different optical schemes and coupling modalities, highlighting the direct-coupled geometry as particularly advantageous for sensitive and reproducible spectral measurements at lower excitation energies.

Research Goals and Hypotheses: The study aims to investigate the impact of different optical configurations for collecting plasma emissions from standard samples (Cu, Cd, Pb). It also explores the influence of coupling modalities and spectrographs on signal quality, emphasizing the efficacy of direct coupling schemes and comparing collection efficiencies between 180° back and 45° collection setups.

Methodological Approach:

  1. Various optical configurations were examined, highlighting the direct-coupled geometry as optimal for sensitive and reproducible spectral measurements at lower excitation energies.
  2. Evaluation of spectrographs (Echelle vs. Czerny Turner) revealed lower signal fluctuations with the Czerny Turner system, enhancing detection sensitivity.
  3. Studied the effect of laser pulse energy on emission lines, demonstrating optimal performance at lower energies for practical, non-destructive single-shot LIBS measurements.
  4. Applied on standard and real-life samples (e.g., metal foils, carious tooth samples), showcasing robust detection capabilities at ppb levels with minimal sample damage.

Results and Discoveries:

  1. The direct-coupled approach effectively mitigates plasma loss and spectral fluctuations, enhancing LIBS performance.
  2. Single-shot LIBS with low-energy pulses offers practicality and sensitivity, facilitating trace element analysis in heterogeneous samples.
  3. Demonstrated potential for real-life applications such as elemental mapping of teeth, highlighting the technique's suitability for clinical and environmental studies.

Citation to the base paper: Keerthi K, Sajan Daniel George, Rajesh Nayak, Santhosh Chidangil, Unnikrishnan VK. Role of geometric configurations in optimizing the LIBS signal enhancement. Optik. 2022 Feb 1;251:168387.

Publication Date

2022

Publication Date

2022

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS