{"id":10654,"date":"2020-01-28T13:00:22","date_gmt":"2020-01-28T13:00:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.thermofisher.com\/blog\/metals\/?p=10654"},"modified":"2026-02-05T20:54:47","modified_gmt":"2026-02-05T20:54:47","slug":"7-tips-for-better-sample-prep-in-libs-analysis-with-video","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.thermofisher.com\/blog\/metals\/7-tips-for-better-sample-prep-in-libs-analysis-with-video\/","title":{"rendered":"7 Tips for Better Sample Prep in LIBS Analysis (with Video!)"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"7LIBS technology<\/a> (Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) can be utilized to help accurately and repeatedly capture carbon content as well as automatically calculate carbon equivalency using a prescribed formula via pseudo element feature.<\/p>\n

A handheld LIBS analyzer<\/a> fires a pulsed laser at the sample vaporizing the material to form a plasma on the surface with ~200 pulses per reading.\u00a0 Excited electrons return to ground state in atoms and ions, emitting light which is collected by onboard spectrometers.\u00a0 The instrument\u2019s software and calibrations compare the wavelengths and intensity of spectral lines to quantify the concentrations of elements, and using a prescribed formula via a pseudo element feature, enables automatic calculation of carbon equivalency.<\/p>\n

Sample preparation is very important to LIBS analysis and must be performed before any measurement process to ensure the most reliable performance and results.\u00a0 Here are seven tips to follow for better sample preparation and more accurate analysis when using a handheld LIBS analyzer<\/a>:<\/p>\n

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  1. Choose an acceptable test location by avoiding areas of heavy pitting or grinding on critical dimensions, such as, flange faces, shaft journals or over markings (heat, lot numbers, etc\u2026).<\/li>\n
  2. Confirming adequate material thickness is a good practice prior to preparation of in-situ pressure containing components, such as process piping.<\/li>\n
  3. Consider material composition and grit when selecting abrasive grinding media. 60-80 grit zirconium aluminum oxide is recommended for typical carbon and low allow steels. Avoid using silicon carbide.<\/li>\n
  4. Work the sanding disc near parallel to the surface evenly to produce a ~1\u201dx1\u201d area for easy positioning.<\/li>\n
  5. Avoid using excessive pressure while maintaining positive control to avoid dishing or removing excessive material.<\/li>\n
  6. Remove, replace and discard used discs often.<\/li>\n
  7. Follow safety procedures. Be aware of spark\/ debris discharge direction and wear personal protective equipment (PPE) as appropriate.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    \"Video<\/a>Want to see what good sample prep looks like?\u00a0 Here’s a video showing best practices for sample preparation before performing a LIBS analysis<\/a>\u00a0with a handheld analyzer.<\/p>\n

    For more information:<\/em><\/p>\n