Identification of Asbestos Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy: A Viable Alternative to the Conventional Approach?

Abstract

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy has been performed on isolated samples of six types of asbestos—Chrysotile, Crocidolite, Amosite, Anthophyllite, Actinolite, and Tremolite—with analysis of optical emission in the visible region of the spectrum. The principal elements of Mg, Fe, Si, Na, and Ca have all been identified. By examining peak intensity ratios of these elements it is possible to identify the type of asbestos under examination solely from internal examination of the sample spectra. LIBS offers some significant advantages of speed of analysis and removal of subjectivity with potential for on-site rapid analysis.