Gallium quantification in solution by LIBS in the presence of bulk uranium

Laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) was developed for the quantitative determination of gallium (Ga) in liquid matrix to provide an independent analytical approach. The methodology involves use of highly pure graphite planchet as a solid support. Important parameters including laser energy and acquisition delay were optimized to achieve the best signal to noise ratio during the LIBS analysis. Calibration was obtained for several emission lines of Ga with different dynamic ranges. The effect of large amount of uranium was also studied. Satisfactory results were obtained for Ga present at percentage level in the U–Ga mixture solution without the need to separate Ga from the bulk of matrix.

► Determination of gallium (Ga) in liquid matrix by LIBS. ► Methodology involves use of highly pure graphite planchet as a solid support. ► Optimum analysis condition is laser energy of 60 mJ and delay of 2.5 μs. ► Calibration was obtained for 6 emission lines of Ga with different dynamic ranges. ► Only two Ga lines can be used for determination in the presence of bulk of U.