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Laser Ablation/Ionisation Mass Spectrometry: Sensitive and Quantitative Chemical Depth Profiling of Solid Materials
Andreas Riedo1, Valentine Grimaudo2, Pavel Moreno-García2
1Physics Institute, Space Research and Planetary Sciences University of Bern, Sidlerstrasse 5, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland. andreas.riedo@space.unibe.ch.
This study reviews the Laser Ablation/Ionisation Mass Spectrometer (LMS) for high-resolution chemical analysis of solids. The LMS offers sensitive, quantitative insights crucial for materials science and space research.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Materials Science
- Geochemistry
Background:
- High spatial resolution chemical analysis of solids is vital for understanding material formation and improving processes.
- Current techniques like SIMS, LA-ICP-MS, and GD-MS have limitations in certain applications.
- Accurate chemical composition data is essential across diverse fields, from space exploration to semiconductor manufacturing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the measurement capabilities of the Laser Ablation/Ionisation Mass Spectrometer (LMS).
- To assess the applicability of the LMS for high-resolution chemical analysis of solid materials.
- To discuss recent applications of the LMS in analyzing alloys, fossils, and meteorites.
Main Methods:
- Utilized Laser Ablation/Ionisation Mass Spectrometry (LMS).
- Performed direct quantitative and sensitive chemical analysis of solid samples.
- Investigated both lateral and vertical spatial resolution capabilities.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated the LMS's capability for direct quantitative and sensitive chemical analysis.
- Achieved high spatial resolution in both lateral and vertical directions.
- Successfully analyzed diverse solid materials including alloys, fossils, and meteorites.
Conclusions:
- The LMS is a valuable tool for high-resolution chemical analysis of solids.
- Its capabilities are applicable to various scientific and industrial fields.
- The instrument provides crucial data for understanding material composition and processes.
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