Sample Origin Determination via Multi-Stage Plasma Spectroscopy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the origin of materials, such as minerals, are often destructive, time-consuming, and rely on human interpretation of data from various analytical techniques, which can be inconsistent.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that convert a sample into plasma multiple times to record its entire emission spectrum, comparing it to a reference library using an electronic processor to determine its origin, incorporating the entire spectrum including atomic, isotopic, molecular, and spectral interference emissions for accurate classification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional analytical techniques (Raman, Luminescence Spectroscopy, EDXRF, SEM-EDS) are used for origin determination, then some analytical information can be obtained, but the methods are time-consuming, destructive, or rely on inconsistent human interpretation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple analytical techniques (LIBS, ICP-OES, ICP-MS) into a unified workflow where LIBS provides rapid screening and elemental composition, which then guides subsequent more precise analyses. This merging allows simultaneous pursuit of speed and accuracy by coordinating multiple methods rather than using them sequentially or separately
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by using LIBS as a first-step screening technique that quickly identifies samples requiring further analysis. This preliminary assessment filters out samples that can be confidently classified without more time-consuming techniques, thereby reducing overall analysis time while maintaining accuracy for cases that need detailed examination
2Measurement precision
If conventional analytical techniques are used, then some data can be collected, but the methods are often destructive to the sample
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by using LIBS to analyze only the surface layer of samples (creating shallow ablation craters of a few micrometers), which provides sufficient information for origin determination without destroying the bulk sample. This partial analysis approach obtains the necessary data while preserving the majority of the sample material
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines non-destructive or minimally destructive techniques (LIBS surface analysis, ICP-OES of dissolved portions) with each other, allowing origin determination through multiple lines of evidence from different analytical approaches that collectively minimize sample destruction while maintaining high accuracy
3Measurement precision
If only a portion of the emission spectrum is used for analysis, then data processing is simpler, but origin determination accuracy is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by using computational methods to identify and select the most informative spectral regions and wavelengths before detailed analysis. This preprocessing step reduces the complexity of processing the entire spectrum while ensuring that the selected portions contain the critical information needed for accurate origin determination
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and focuses on specific diagnostic spectral features (particular wavelengths, emission lines, and spectral regions) that are most indicative of origin, rather than attempting to process the entire spectrum equally. This extraction of key features reduces data complexity while preserving the information necessary for high-accuracy classification
4Adaptability or versatility
If human interpretation of analytical data is used, then flexible judgment can be applied, but results are uncertain and varying
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback through iterative classification processes where initial automated results are evaluated, and uncertain cases are flagged for expert review. The feedback loop allows human expertise to correct and refine automated classifications, while successful cases reinforce the automated system's decision-making, progressively improving both consistency and adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges automated computational classification (providing consistency and objectivity) with human expert interpretation (providing flexibility and nuanced judgment) in a hybrid workflow. This combination allows the system to maintain reliability through automated processing while retaining adaptability through human oversight for complex or ambiguous cases
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach allows for non-destructive, accurate determination of a sample's origin by utilizing the entire emission spectrum, improving precision and reducing human error, and can distinguish between materials with similar elemental compositions but different processing histories.
Implementation Method 1
converting a portion of the sample into a plasma by irradiating the sample with a pulse of electromagnetic radiation
Implementation Method 2
recording a spectrum of electromagnetic radiation emitted from the sample in response to each conversion
Data Source
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AI summary
This disclosure relates to a method for analyzing a sample of material. The method includes (a) converting a portion of the sample into a plasma multiple times; (b) recording a spectrum of electromagnetic radiation emitted in response to each of the sample conversions to define a sequence of spectra for the sample, in which each member of the sequence corresponds to the spectrum recorded in response to a different one of the sample conversions; (c) using an electronic processor to compare the sequence of spectra for the sample to a sequence of spectra for each of at least one reference sample in a reference library; and (d) using the electronic processor to determine information about the sample based on the comparison to the reference samples in the library