Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) imaging for carbon quantification in archaeological ferrous alloys

Abstract

This study demonstrates that μ-LIBS imaging provides high-resolution, quantitative carbon distribution in archaeological ferrous alloys. Ancient ferrous alloys are characterized by a heterogeneous distribution of carbon and other elements within their metallic matrix. This study uses micro-Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (μ-LIBS) to analyze the characteristic elements in archaeological ferrous alloys, complementing classical metallographic methods. Typically, this latter approach relies on image analysis following optical microscopy observations, which has limitations in accurately quantifying carbon concentrations. The analytical approach using μ-LIBS imaging not only enhances carbon localization but also facilitates the study of other elements present in ferrous alloys, such as phosphorus and manganese. This article shows the potential of μ-LIBS imaging for future archaeometallurgical research.