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 compounds by using laser-induced plasma spectroscopy (LIPS) was investigated. LIPS has been a well-known technique for qualitative and quantitative analysis for trace metals: however, there has been little research done on non-metal elements. The main elements. including C, H, O and N, were investigated using commercially available solid organic powders. A helium or argon gas environment was used to eliminate interference from air. Linear responses were obtained from these elements with precision and accuracy of 2-3%.