Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS)

AITHER is actively pursuing spectroscopy applications using LIBS technology. This optical sensing technique allows for real-time elemental material identification of a sample (solid, liquid, or gas) with no sample preparation. Originally developed to analyze gas samples, the LIBS sensor system is based on an optical emission technique using a high peak power pulsed laser beam to form a small spark (i.e., breakdown) directly in the exhaust stream. This spark creates a plasma state hot enough to dissociate molecules into their constituent atoms and to excite the electrons in the neutral atoms and ions formed in the plasma out of the ground state and into excited electronic states. As the plasma cools, excited electrons and ions relax back into their ground states, emitting light at characteristic atomic wavelengths. Material identification is accomplished by detecting the atomic emission using a spectrometer. Typical spectral emission for a multi-metallic sample is displayed below. Concentrations can be determined through relative light intensities. Elements that can be sensitively measured using LIBS include Al, Ba, Be, Ca, Cd, Cr, Cs, Fe, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni, Pb, Se, Ti, and V, among others.

AITHER is currently working under an extended SBIR program with the Arnold Engineering Development Center (AEDC), Arnold Air Force Base investigating applications of LIBS technology for turbine engine monitoring.

Contact us to learn how LIBS technology may be your sensing solution.