Detection of chlorine and fluorine in air by laser-induced breakdown spectrometry
The use of laser-induced breakdown spectrometry (LIBS) to spectrometrically detect chlorine and fluorine in air directly is investigated. A laser-generated spark is used to atomize chlorine- and fluorine-bearing molecules. The atoms are then electronically excited by the high temperatures of the spark. Emission from the neutral atoms is spectrally and temporally resolved to maximize the signal-to-noise ratio. Optimization of the time window and laser power for minimum detection limits is discussed. The use of LIBS to determine the ratios of the numbers of different types of atoms on a molecule is considered. Minimum detectable concentrations of chlorine and fluorine in air are 8 and 38 ppM (w/w), respectively. Minimum detectable masses of chlorine and fluorine are, respectively, 80 ng and 2000 ng in air and 3 ng for both atoms in He. The precision for replicate sample analysis is 8% RSD. 11 references, 3 figures, 4 tables.
- Research Organization:
- Los Alamos National Lab., NM
- OSTI ID:
- 7135979
- Journal Information:
- Anal. Chem.; (United States), Journal Name: Anal. Chem.; (United States) Vol. 55:8; ISSN ANCHA
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS): a new spectrochemical technique
Time-resolved laser-induced breakdown spectrometry of aerosols