High-throughput analysis of single particles by micro laser induced breakdown spectroscopy

Multi-elemental analysis of particulate matters is highly desirable for the identification of their emission sources. However, the traditional techniques for single particle analysis usually require time-consuming sample preparation procedures. We report here a system that combines bright-field microscopy with laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), allowing rapid and multi-elemental analysis of single particles. The improved throughput of the system was benefited from the use of ultra-thin polyethylene films for particle immobilization such that their spectra were collected successively. The simple composition of the films avoided their interferences in the particles' LIBS spectra. Moreover, the small thickness of the films allowed their rapid vaporization during laser ablation such that the plasma emissions from the particles were not quenched by their substrates. The performances of the system were demonstrated by studying the heterogeneity in particles' compositions and discriminating dust particles with very similar chemicals, suggesting that it is a promising tool for environmental risk assessment.