Decoding the Battle: LIBS (LP-LIBS) vs. OES Technology

May 29

In the realm of elemental analysis, Optical Emission Spectroscopy (OES) has long reigned as the titan. However, as industries relying on accurate elemental analysis, such as aluminum production, seek to enhance efficiency and precision, it is time to consider the potential of Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS). Join us as we delve into the comparison between LIBS and OES technology, uncovering why LP-LIBS (Liquid Phase - Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) may be the superior choice for achieving superior analytical performance.

The Fundamentals of LIBS and OES Technology

At their core, LIBS and OES represent distinct approaches to elemental analysis. OES generates a plasma between an electrode and the sample, necessitating sample conductivity. In contrast, LIBS uses a high-energy laser pulse to create a plasma directly on the sample's surface. This fundamental distinction grants LIBS a significant advantage: the ability to analyze a broader range of samples, including liquids and gasses, without the constraint of sample conductivity.

Comparing OES & LIBS

In our analysis, we've unearthed a spectrum of findings, highlighting the unique strengths and weaknesses of LIBS and OES

  
      Comparison
      LIBS
      OES
    

  
      Principle
      Uses a high-energy laser pulse to create plasma on the sample's surface
      Generates plasma between an electrode and the sample
    

      Sample Requirements
      Can analyze a wide range of materials, including solids, liquids, and gasses
      Requires conductive samples
    

      Accuracy
      High accuracy, particularly for surface analysis and spatial resolution
      High accuracy, especially in analyzing solid metal samples
    

      Speed
      Rapid analysis, often under 60 seconds
      Longer analysis cycle compared to LIBS
    

      Portability
      Highly portable and suitable for field applications
      Generally not portable, best suited for laboratory use
    

      Cost
      Potentially higher initial cost due to the advanced laser equipment but lower operating expense
      Possibly lower initial cost, but maintenance and consumables can be costly resulting in a higher operating expense
    

      Sample Preparation
      Minimal sample preparation needed
      Often requires more extensive sample preparation
    

      Versatility
      Highly versatile, can analyze diverse sample types
      Less versatile, limited to conductive samples
    

      Environmental Impact
      Minimal, no need for consumables like electrodes
      Potential environmental impact due to electrode usage
    

      Field of Application
      Suitable for industrial, environmental, forensic, and mining applications
      Primarily used in metallurgy, manufacturing, and quality control labs
    

      Maintenance
      Low maintenance, minimal recalibration needed
      Requires regular maintenance and electrode replacement
    

      Calibration
      LIBS solutions can operate in a harsh industrial environment for months without standardization.
      Regular intervals of re-calibration due to drift in analysis results.
    

Comparison	LIBS	OES
Principle	Uses a high-energy laser pulse to create plasma on the sample's surface	Generates plasma between an electrode and the sample
Sample Requirements	Can analyze a wide range of materials, including solids, liquids, and gasses	Requires conductive samples
Accuracy	High accuracy, particularly for surface analysis and spatial resolution	High accuracy, especially in analyzing solid metal samples
Speed	Rapid analysis, often under 60 seconds	Longer analysis cycle compared to LIBS
Portability	Highly portable and suitable for field applications	Generally not portable, best suited for laboratory use
Cost	Potentially higher initial cost due to the advanced laser equipment but lower operating expense	Possibly lower initial cost, but maintenance and consumables can be costly resulting in a higher operating expense
Sample Preparation	Minimal sample preparation needed	Often requires more extensive sample preparation
Versatility	Highly versatile, can analyze diverse sample types	Less versatile, limited to conductive samples
Environmental Impact	Minimal, no need for consumables like electrodes	Potential environmental impact due to electrode usage
Field of Application	Suitable for industrial, environmental, forensic, and mining applications	Primarily used in metallurgy, manufacturing, and quality control labs
Maintenance	Low maintenance, minimal recalibration needed	Requires regular maintenance and electrode replacement
Calibration	LIBS solutions can operate in a harsh industrial environment for months without standardization.	Regular intervals of re-calibration due to drift in analysis results.

Comparison Analysis Results

In our analysis, we've unearthed a spectrum of findings, highlighting the unique strengths and weaknesses of LIBS and OES. While both technologies offer relative analysis methods that must be calibrated against known standards, LIBS showcases comparable measurement variance to OES for most elements of interest. However, for inherently homogeneous molten metal, LIBS emerges as the superior choice, providing better results at higher elemental concentrations.

Accuracy and Precision

When it comes to accuracy and precision, both LIBS and OES exhibit their prowess. LIBS excels in sample handling flexibility, avoiding electrode erosion or contamination common in OES analysis. This advantage translates into reduced damage, minimized recalibration needs, and prolonged operational stability—an essential consideration for industries operating in harsh industrial environments.

Speed and Efficiency

In the race for speed and efficiency, LIBS holds its ground admirably. With its ability to deliver rapid elemental analysis directly from liquid metal in less than 60 seconds, LIBS outpaces OES in terms of turnaround times and sample throughput. This efficiency translates into enhanced productivity and real-time insights, essential for industries where time is of the essence.

Portability and Field Applications

When it comes to portability and field applications, LIBS emerges as the undisputed champion. Its ease of use, ruggedness, and suitability for on-site analysis make it indispensable in industries such as aluminum production, metallurgy and recycling. OES, while offering accurate results in laboratory settings, often falls short in the demanding conditions of field applications.

Navigating the Landscape of Elemental Analysis

In the dynamic landscape of elemental analysis, the choice between LIBS and OES is not merely a matter of preference but a strategic decision with far-reaching implications. While both technologies offer unique advantages, LIBS shines as a versatile, efficient, and reliable solution for industries seeking unparalleled analytical competence. As industries evolve and demand for elemental analysis and safety grows, LIBS stands poised to lead the charge, unlocking new possibilities and shaping the future of materials characterization.

DTE uses LIBS (LP-LIBS)

With Liquid-Phase Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LP-LIBS), DTE offers unmatched efficiency and safety in metal manufacturing, making it a leader in elemental analysis technology. Discover how DTE's LP-LIBS technology can revolutionize your elemental analysis processes.

Learn more

Aron Adalsteinsson