Improving Cl determination in cements by molecular LIBS using noble gas-enriched atmospheres and new approaches for interference removal

Abstract

Nowadays, emission from diatomic molecules is frequently used for multiple purposes within Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS). However, these spectrally broad signals are often found interfered by other spectral emissions, which...

Atomic spectrometry update: review of advances in atomic spectrometry and related techniques

“…Emission signals from diatomic molecules, which are frequently employed for various purposes in LIBS, are characterised by broad spectra that are prone to spectral interference. Fernández-Menéndez et al 117 developed a method to critically assess and eliminate CaO and Na interferences from CaCl emission (at around 593 nm), allowing a proper quantification of the Cl in cements. The study also addressed challenges related to the absence of a Cl-blank cement sample and the variability of Na concentration in the analysed samples.…”

“…Fang et al 163 developed a standard addition technique to measure Sb isotopes. Their method involved a proof of concept by mixing two solution standards and measuring isotope ratios using MC-ICP-MS. Mass fractionation was assessed using a combination of Sn addition and correction using 119 Sn/ 117 Sn with Sb sample-standard bracketing. True Sb isotope ratios were calculated using standard isotope mixing laws.…”

Atomic spectrometry update: review of advances in the analysis of metals, chemicals and materials

“…One such paper was presented by Fernandez-Menendez et al who developed an improved LIBS technique that enabled improved Cl determination using molecular LIBS in a noble gas-enriched environment. 124 Under normal circumstances, the broadband emission from these molecules are interfered with. For instance, the CaCl emission at 593 nm from cement or concrete would normally be interfered with by the CaO band between 590 and 620 nm and possibly Na at approximately 590 nm.…”