A Practical Laser Induced Breakdown Spectrometer for Real Time On-Line Monitoring of Aqueous Process Streams

40748 November 13, 1996 J&D Scientific This project will develop a practical laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) system for detecting elemental species in aqueous process streams. The LIBS technique requires no sample preparation and is a rapid, in-situ, on-line analysis instrument. Other advantages are its simultaneous multi-elemental capability, good detection limits, and wide dynamic range. Problems to be addressed include: (1) the low precision due to the laser/material interaction and (2) calibration. The Phase I result will be a prototype LIBS system for elemental analyses in effluent process streams. Anticipated Results/Potential Commercial Applications as described by the awardee: The project should result in two commercial LIBS systems: a semi-permanent, autonomous system and a hand-carried operator based system. Each has substantial commercial potential as environmental monitoring instruments.