Laser‑induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) is an atomic emission spectroscopy technique in which a high‑energy laser pulse ablates, atomizes, and excites a small volume of sample material to form a plasma. The optical emission from this plasma is analyzed to identify, and determine the concentration of, chemical elements in metals and other materials.
LIBS is ideal for quick analysis, even of small or irregularly shaped parts. Because compared to other methods, LIBS analysis removes only minuscule bits of material from the sample surface — due to the technique’s relatively small burn spot — and is thus almost completely nondestructive.
For years a laboratory technique, LIBS began to be used for onsite alloy identification with the introduction of handheld analyzer models. This report highlights the fundamentals of the LIBS process; its significant advantages; and recent developments that render the latest LIBS analyzer, SPECTRO Analytical Instruments’ SPECTROPORT LIBS, an ideal solution for an expanding range of analytical applications. These include sorting of alloys in the recycling industry, alloy quality assurance in aerospace and automotive, maintenance and verification for the energy industry, general manufacturing, and more.
Key benefits for metal analysis workflows include:
- Rapid results that enable high sample throughput and faster release decisions
- Minimal surface impact that preserves finished or high‑value components
- Flexible, onsite testing that extends elemental analysis beyond the laboratory
Download the white paper now to learn how advanced LIBS technology is redefining fast, nondestructive elemental analysis in metal applications.