Determination of C : H : O : N ratios in solid organic compounds by laser-induced plasma spectroscopy

A new approach for the determination of major elemental ratios in organic c ompounds by using laser-induced plasma spectroscopy (LIPS) was investigated . LIPS has been a well-known technique for qualitative and quantitative ana lysis for trace metals: however, there has been little research done on non -metal elements. The main elements. including C, H, O and N, were investiga ted using commercially available solid organic powders. A helium or argon g as environment was used to eliminate interference from air. Linear response s were obtained from these elements with precision and accuracy of 2-3%.