DETERMINATION OF CARBON IN LOW-ALLOY STEELS BY LASER ATOMIC-EMISSION SPECTROSCOPY IN AIR

Abstract

Based on laser atomic emission spectroscopic analysis, a technique has been developed for the rapid determination of carbon content in low-alloy steels. The C I 909.483 nm carbon line in the near infrared region of the spectrum was chosen as an analytical one. Optimization of the conditions for the spectrum recording in this region is carried out. It is shown that the transition to a double-pulse mode of excitation enhances the intensity of the spectral lines of the elements included in the composition of the analyzed sample, and reduces the intensity of lines of the elements included in the composition of the air, which allows the analysis of the line under normal atmospheric conditions. The calibrated dependence for carbon steels is linear for the practically important concentration range of the determining component of this steel grade. The measurement error of the carbon concentration, and also the influence of pollution of atmosphere of a working environment by this element on its determination are estimated.