Technical Note: Handheld LIBS Provides a Fast and Easy Method to Trace Gold

Handheld LIBS is relevant to gold traceability, and is simple to use in the field.

A new study published as a Technical Note in the Journal of Analytical Atomic Spectrometry (JAAS) demonstrates LIBS as a fast and easy method to trace gold provenance, a previously difficult but necessary task to ensure a responsible supply chain from deposit to consumer. The authors selected the SciAps Z-200 C+ handheld LIBS for the study, and their results demonstrate that HH LIBS is relevant to gold traceability and is simple to use in the field. JASS is the central journal of the Royal Society of Chemistry for publishing innovative research on fundamentals, instrumentation, and methods in the determination, speciation and isotopic analysis of (trace) elements within all fields of application. Download the PDF

Handheld laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) as a fast and easy method to trace gold

‍Anthony Pochon, Anne-Marie Desaulty and Laurent Bailly Journal of Analytical Atomic Spectrometry

‍First Published January 7, 2020

‍Abstract

Gold is traded in virtually every country around the world. Consequently, tracing gold provenance is a difficult but necessary task to ensure a responsible supply chain from deposit to consumer. Measuring the silver content is often the first step in characterizing gold to retrace its origin. In this study, laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) using a handheld instrument was evaluated as a fast and easy method to analyse the silver content in natural gold. Six commercial gold alloys and natural gold from French Guiana were used. Our results demonstrate that handheld LIBS is relevant to gold traceability and is simple to use in the field. The micron-scale focused laser beam allows in situ analyses of small gold grains with acceptable reproducibility. Univariate and multivariate regression modelling was performed to assess the best calibration model for quantification of the Ag content. The quadratic univariate model was selected for its good predictive ability, with a coefficient of determination R² of 0.99 and a mean average error of 0.36 wt% Ag for prediction. The LIBS analyses of natural gold were compared to the EPMA data using a statistical test that allow distinct gold populations to be discriminated (or matched) and the results indicate it would be suitable for identifying unknown samples. We were able to successfully trace the origin of our “unknown” samples, a promising first step in the goal of delivering a low-cost field-based tool for responsible supply chain management.

‍Keywords Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy, LIBS, geochemical exploration, geochemical fingerprinting, micro-imaging, grain size analysis, mineral texture

‍Access Full Article:https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2020/ja/c9ja00437h/unauth#!divAbstract

‍About the Journal of Analytical Atomic Spectrometry: JASS is the central journal of the Royal Society of Chemistry for publishing innovative research on fundamentals, instrumentation, and methods in the determination, speciation and isotopic analysis of (trace) elements within all fields of application.

Why SciAps LIBS for mineral identification?

The SciAps Z features the most advanced LIBS technology of any handheld. The Z utilizes the most powerful laser, operating at 5-6 mJ/pulse, up to 50 Hz rep rate, Class 3B 1064nm wavelength. The spectrometer range of 190 nm out to 950 nm delivers full periodic table coverage. The patented OPTi-purge^TM integrated argon gas purge (optional) yields better limits of detection for many elements compared to air-based analysis. Internal 3D stage raster the laser allowing for surgical analysis of inclusions or veins if desired, all easily viewed through the integrated camera and laser targeting. No X-rays means no travel restrictions or licensing headaches. There are now dozens of SciAps LIBS analyzers being used globally for geochemical exploration projects. Discover in-field analysis of Li, Be, B, C, Na, F; lithium in hard rocks and brines; and high sensitivity to other major elements Mg, Si, Al, Ca, K.

Have an application?

We can run samples in our materials laboratory, or visit you with an analyzer for a brief feasibility study.

‍

Check out our Academic LIBS Advancement Program

We frequently loan out HH LIBS and XRF units for a few weeks or a month to academic researchers, so that they can perform a study or field analysis. LIBS is often a preferred technique, especially for students, since operators do not have to deal with the regulatory complexities of X-ray fluorescence analyzers. SciAps Z-300 will measure every element in the periodic table – yes even hydrogen! And our accompanying Profile Builder software provides operators complete freedom to modify laser and spectrometer parameters and generate their own calibrations. You’re not limited to factory-imposed calibrations or unchangeable multi-variant techniques.

How does it work?

Easy. Contact us (academic@sciaps.com) with a brief description of what you want to measure. As your work progresses, we’d appreciate continued updates. Don’t worry, we understand that you can’t compromise a future publication. We’ll get you the analyzer, train you at a regularly scheduled time (often via GoTo Meeting or Skype but in-person works too). The goal is to raise awareness of the amazing world of applications available to handheld LIBS and XRF. Please note at this time we must limit the loaner program to researchers working at U.S. and Canadian institutions. However, researchers from these countries may travel globally with the analyzer.

Share This Post

‍