OES Chemical Analysis

OES analysis uses an Optical Emission Spectrometer to make a quantitative measurement of the optical emission from excited atoms to determine analyte concentration.  A solid sample is atomized by an arc-spark discharge which provides sufficient energy to promote the electrons of atoms into high energy levels. 

The intensity of the light, which is proportional to the concentration of the element in the sample, is recalculated internally.  The recalculation uses a set of calibration curves and is shown directly as a percent concentration of the element. 

How OES Analysis Works

An optical emission spectrometer (OES) is a powerful analytical tool that can be used to characterize a wide range of materials, including metals, alloys and semiconductors. 

OES is particularly well suited to the analysis of composite materials. It can provide information on both the elemental composition and the microstructure of the material. In composite material testing, OES can be used to identify the presence of impurities or defects, and to determine the distribution of elements within the material. This information is essential for quality control and for understanding the behaviour of the material under different conditions. 

OES is a non-destructive technique that is quick and easy to use, making it an important tool for composite material testing. All analyses are NIST traceable through the use of certified reference materials. Typically element concentrations are reported to 0.01 wt%, however in some cases trace elements can be analyzed to ppm levels.

OES analysis (Optical Emission Spectroscopy) uses quantitative measurement of the optical emission from excited atoms to determine analyte concentration.  A solid sample is atomized by an arc-spark discharge which provides sufficient energy to promote the electrons of atoms into high energy levels. 

The intensity of the light, which is proportional to the concentration of the element in the sample, is recalculated internally from a stored set of calibration curves and is shown directly as percent concentration of the element.