Characterisation of Inclusions in Clean Steels via Laser Ablation-ICP Mass Spectrometry

抄録

A new method for detection and assessment of inclusions in clean steels based on laser ablation and ICP mass spectrometry has been developed. Samples were subjected to UV laser ablation (Nd Yag) and ion intensities of elements of interest were monitored on a time-resolved basis. Lasers exhibiting both gaussian and flat-top intensity beam distributions were used. Analytical response for inclusion and matrix elements as a function of laser ablation parameters was studied and procedures were developed for rapid inclusion characterisation and elemental mapping. Main inclusion types identified in clean steels were Mn-S, Mg-Al and Mg-Al-Ca-Ti-Si. Results indicate the considerable analytical potential for the laser ablation technique in a production environment.