Industry-Shaping Technology
DTE’s chemical analysis technology is based on proprietary and patented liquid-phase laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LP-LIBS™).
Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy uses a high-energy laser pulse focused on the sample surface to generate a high-temperature plasma.
The hot plasma emits a spectrum of discrete spectral lines. The pattern of spectral lines provides a “fingerprint” of each element present in the sample. By analyzing these spectral signatures, the chemical components of the sample can be identified and quantified.
Benefits of Implementing LP-LIBS™
LP-LIBS™ technology offers several advantages:
Rapid Analysis: Provides elemental analysis within 60 seconds.
High Accuracy: Detects elements at parts per million levels.
Enhanced Process Control: Improves the efficiency and safety of metal manufacturing.
Real-Time Results: Facilitates immediate decision-making in metal recycling and manufacturing processes.
This technology ensures repeatable results and aligns closely with laboratory standards, revolutionizing metal manufacturing and recycling through efficient, real-time elemental analysis.
A new benchmark
for on-line analysis
Unlike traditional chemical analysis methods, DTE’s technology is ideally suited for continuous chemical analysis. It provides high-resolution time-series data during alloying and scrap melting, as well as for monitoring volatile elements and melt kinetics.
DTE’s technology provides an accurate representation of the bulk melt composition even at high elemental concentrations, which prevents the segregation of elements that can occur during casting of solid samples. With automated analysis, the number of data points can be greatly increased, enabling faster and better decision-making and real-time process control.
Precision and accuracy
Precision (repeatability) and accuracy (trueness) are crucial for any chemical analysis technique. These parameters depend on the element being measured, its concentration, the overall metal or alloy composition, and the calibration method.
Analyzers are factory-calibrated for specific elements and alloy groups using a trusted reference method standardized against certified reference materials (CRMs). The stability can be monitored over time with solid CRMs.
Our chemical analysis experts can provide detailed information on the precision and accuracy of analyzers for primary metals and common alloys.
Comparison with spark-OES
DTE’s LIBS technology and conventional spark-OES are both calibrated against known standards.
However, there are key differences:
Measurement Variance: LIBS shows comparable variance to spark-OES but provides better results for higher elemental concentrations in homogeneous molten metal.
Laser Excitation: No electrode erosion or contamination occurs, unlike in spark-OES.
Reduced Damage: Less damage means less need for re-calibration.
Durability: Operates in harsh industrial environments for months without standardization.
Want to know more?
Schedule a call with our expert team.