Qualitative and quantitative analyses of copper ores collected from Baluchistan, Pakistan using LIBS and LA-TOF-MS

Abstract

We present a compositional analysis of different copper ore samples collected from Baluchistan, Pakistan. The qualitative as well as quantitative analysis was performed using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) and laser ablation time-of-flight mass spectrometer (LA-TOF-MS). The laser-produced plasma on the surface of the samples was generated by focusing a high-power Nd: YAG laser and the time-integrated optical emission spectra were recorded using a set of four spectrometers coupled and equipped with charged coupled device (CCD). We used the Calibration-free laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (CF-LIBS) for the quantitative determination of major and trace elements present in different ore samples. The quantitative analysis of these samples was also performed using LA-TOF-MS. Fifteen elements including lithium, sodium, magnesium, aluminum, silicon, potassium, calcium, manganese, titanium, iron, copper, zinc, silver, strontium and barium with varying concentrations have been detected in the optical emission spectra. Both the techniques, LIBS through CF and LA-TOF-MS, independently yield quantitative results that are in good agreement. It is demonstrated that LIBS and LA-TOF-MS are complementary, non-destructive and efficient techniques that can be used to analyze any solid material in a short time.