Particle analysis through the coupling of laser ablation with ICP-MS

The coupling of laser ablation with mass spectrometry, more precisely LA-ICP-MS (Laser Ablation - Inductively Coupled Plasma - Mass Spectrometry) has been used for the first time for the isotopic analysis of micro-metrical uranium particles. An essential step of the methodology is to immobilize the particles to prevent them from being moved by the laser beam. The particles are deposited on a polycarbonate disk with an organic compound that traps the particles when drying. It is also essential to localize the particles on the support, we have used scanning electron microscopy and the technique of fission tracks. The debris produced during the interaction of the laser beam with the disk surface are driven by a gas flow towards the ICP plasma. The method has been tested through comparisons with proven techniques. The isotopic composition of uranium has been measured in micro-metrical particles containing less than 10-15 g of matter. (A.C.)