LIBS Detection of Heavy Metal Contamination of Soil
A study conducted at the University of Alabama at Birmingham in the United States sheds new light on the pressing issue of heavy metal contamination in Birmingham’s soil due to previous and present-day industrial activities. The paper is entitled, “Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy Detection of Heavy Metal Contamination in Soil Samples from North Birmingham, Alabama.”
The research emphasizes the need for effective detection methods for heavy metals like arsenic, lead, and manganese, which are prevalent in the contaminated soil of this site in Alabama. Heavy metals pose a significant threat to human health due to their toxicity and potential to accumulate in the body, leading to various health issues.
The researchers utilized Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) to analyze heavy metal concentrations in soil samples in real time and at a lower cost compared to traditional methods like ICP-MS. By calibrating the system with contaminated soil samples, the scientists were able to accurately quantify the presence of heavy metals by normalizing the collected spectra.
The study ultimately demonstrated the effectiveness of LIBS in quantifying low concentrations of lead, arsenic, and manganese in soil samples. Detection limits of 29.5 mg/kg for lead, 95.5 mg/kg for arsenic, and 327 mg/kg for manganese were realized. The research also showed that the performance of the LIBS system improved significantly under argon purging. Overall, the findings underscore the potential of LIBS as a rapid and reliable method for assessing heavy metal contamination in soils, particularly in regions with significant industrial pollution.
The scientists utilized the ARYELLE 200 spectrometer and LIBSpector sample chamber from LTB Lasertechnik Berlin.
About the ARYELLE 200 Spectrograph
The ARYELLE 200 is the perfect compromise between high spectral resolution, size and price. This UV-VIS-NIR wide-range echelle spectrometer has a 200-mm focal length for LIBS and Raman spectroscopy.
- High spectral resolving power (7,000–15,000)
- Large simultaneous wavelength range
- Suitable with various detectors (CMOS, CCD, EMCCD, ICCD)
- Up to 40 spectra/s
About the LIBSpector Sample Chamber
The benchtop LIBSspector sample chamber for spatially resolved, qualitative and quantitative LIBS analysis features:
- Ability to handle solid, liquid and gaseous samples
- Motorized XYZ stage for sample mapping
- Laser class 1 housing with interlock
- Combinable with spectrometer series ARYELLE and DEMON
- Built-in LIBS laser head (optional)
For more information or a quotation for LTB products, contact IL Photonics.