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90% time savings: Visual & chemical material inspection 2-in-1

Microstructure Composition Analysis Solution DM6 M LIBS

Combine visual and qualitative chemical inspection in a single work step and save 90% of your time to determine microstructure composition compared to inspection with conventional SEM/EDS. Integrated Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) delivers the exact chemical fingerprint of the material’s structure that you see in the microscope image - within a second.

  • 2 systems in 1 for visual & chemical analysis
  • 1 second to a chemical fingerprint
  • 0 sample preparation

Done!

Examine exactly what you see via the eyepieces or camera with a single click for fast and simple identification and interpretation. No additional expertise by the operator is required. 

Watch the video and learn how the DM6 M LIBS system delivers full results in only a few moments

As an up-and-coming medium-sized company, we saw the need to expand our internal analysis methods. Our decision for the DM6 M LIBS material analysis solution was based on its versatility and ease of use. Our aim was to be able to carry out optical examinations, evaluation of surface topographies, and qualitative analyses with little effort.

The instrument has now been in use for more than a year and we can say that our expectations were fully met. The investment has paid off due to the versatility and short analysis times.

We are really very satisfied.

Hans-Ullrich Eckert, Development Manager Process Technology, GERWECK GMBH Oberflächentechnik, Bretten-Gölshausen (Germany)

Examination of a metallic interface with the DM6 M LIBS solution shows a lead layer (lower) over steel (upper).

2-in-1 for Rapid, Precise Material Analysis

The integrated laser spectroscopy function of the DM6 M LIBS delivers the chemical composition of the microstructure that you see in the microscope image - within a second.

Identify the microstructure composition of interest, then trigger the LIBS analysis with a single click.

Your advantages

  • Save 90% time for chemical analysis compared to typical methods involving electron microscopy* and
  • Quick, confident decision making based on reliable information about the material, both visual and chemical.

*proof available upon request

No SEM sample preparation required

Why does materials analysis with the DM6 M LIBS solution take 90% less time? Because it requires:

  • no sample preparation nor transfer;
  • no system adjustment; and
  • no relocating the region of interest (ROI).

Reduce the workflow

Reduce the workflow to just one step and focus on results.

Refer to this application note for more info about composition analysis with the DM6 M LIBS.

3x fewer work steps with the DM6 M LIBS solution versus analysis with optical and electron microscopy (SEM).
Aluminum particle clearly identified during inspection via LIBS.

Decide rapidly what to do

By combining tools to analyze the microstructure composition of the sample you have all the information within one second to make the right decisions.

The data obtained is sufficient in >90% of cases for users to make confident decisions rapidly concerning further actions to be taken (e.g., if more detailed analysis with SEM is needed to identify the source of contamination).*

*based on user feedback

Cleanliness Analysis of Components

The DM6 M LIBS 2-in-1 system combined with the Cleanliness Expert analysis software enables you to do visual and chemical inspection on filter samples with a single instrument and workflow.

This way, the source of contamination can be found more easily.

Make confident decisions

Obtaining data on both particle composition and structure quickly gives you the advantage of making confident decisions more rapidly during the analysis.

Contaminant particle found on a filter during cleanliness analysis identified as steel with LIBS.
An iron bearing phase within a silicate host rock.

Evaluation of Microstructure Composition

The DM6 M LIBS 2-in-1 solution allows you to perform both structural and elemental/chemical analysis of material phases, e.g., minerals, alloys, ceramics, etc.

There is no need for sample preparation nor transfer between 2 or more devices. The entire analysis workflow occurs with a single instrument.

Minimizing labor intensive sample preparation

You can save time and money by minimizing labor intensive sample preparation and costly SEM/EDS analysis.

Depth Profile and Layer Analysis of Materials

The ablation principle of LIBS can be exploited for microdrilling into materials.

Applications of µ-drilling are such things as:

  • Depth profiling
  • Layer analysis
  • Surface cleaning.

Depth profiling is useful to determine if a material’s composition may change with the depth into its bulk.

Layer analysis can be used to find the composition of each layer in a material. Examples of layered materials would be multi-coated or painted metals.

Use surface cleaning to remove oxides and contamination.

Schematic of µ-drilled hole with diameter and depth indicated - Copper alloy with µ-drilled holes via LIBS
1. A laser pulse strikes the material surface;
2. A plasma is induced and then breaks down, emitting light; and
3. Characteristic atomic line spectral emissions allow the elements to be identified.

LIBS: Your Chemical Analysis Lab

The DM6 M LIBS solution exploits Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) to make qualitative chemical analysis possible.

Trigger the analysis with a single click and a laser will strike the targeted spot on the sample. A plasma will be created and then break down. The resulting characteristic light spectrum shows the fingerprints of the elements present in the material.

The software will identify the microstructure composition by comparing the spectrum with a known data set for elements and compounds. The data set can be expanded with the results for specific materials obtained by the user.

DM6 M LIBS Solution: The Microscope’s Contribution

For a rapid materials analysis workflow with the 2-in-1 solution, the microscopy also plays an important role.

The DM6 M compound microscope offers

  • Observation with a large objective magnification range from 1.25x to 100x;
  • Easy visualization of a material’s fine structure in its true colors with multiple contrast techniques;
  • Freedom to make the analysis whenever you want.

It’s Never Too Late!

Upgrade with LIBS for a 2-in-1 solution

Do you already have one of our DM6000 M or DM6 M compound microscopes?

If so, then you can take advantage of the option to retrofit it with a LIBS system - and have a 2-in-1 solution at an advantageous price.

Interested to know more?

Talk to our experts. We are happy to answer all your questions and concerns.

Contact Us

Do you prefer personal consulting?

  • Leica Microsystems Inc.
    1700 Leider Lane
    Buffalo Grove, IL 60089 United States
    Office Phone : +1 800 248 0123
    Service Phone : 1 800 248 0223
    Fax : +1 847-236-3009
    Routeplanner (google maps)

You will find a more detailed list of local contacts here.

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