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Branching Ratio Method for Assessing Optically Thin Conditions in Laser-Induced Plasmas
Ivan A Urbina Medina1, Deborah D Carneiro2,3, Suellen Rocha2
1Centro de Investigaciones Ópticas, Gonnet, Argentina.
Applied Spectroscopy
|March 19, 2021
Summary
The branching ratio method may inaccurately suggest optically thin plasma conditions, even with significant self-absorption. This finding is crucial for accurate results in laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy applications.
Area of Science:
- Plasma Physics
- Atomic Spectroscopy
Background:
- The branching ratio method is commonly used to assess optical thinness in laser-generated plasmas.
- Optical thinness is critical for the accuracy of analytical techniques like calibration-free laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (CF-LIBS).
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight a potential pitfall of the branching ratio method.
- To caution researchers about misinterpreting plasma optical thinness.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of the branching ratio method's application in laser-generated plasmas.
- Evaluation of plasma conditions under potential self-absorption.
Main Results:
- The branching ratio method can yield results indicative of optical thinness.
- These results may occur despite substantial self-absorption in the considered spectral transitions.
Conclusions:
- Researchers must exercise caution when using the branching ratio method.
- Potential self-absorption can lead to erroneous conclusions about plasma optical thinness, impacting CF-LIBS accuracy.
