Handheld LIBS analysis for in situ quantification of Li and detection of the trace elements (Be, Rb and Cs)

The world's lithium demand is currently increasing due to its use in batteries and green energy technologies. As a consequence, Li has recently been added the list of critical materials Europe. Finding new deposits necessary order guarantee mid- long-term stable supply. Granites associated pegmatites are primary ‘hard-rock’ source for Li, where it present variety aluminosilicate minerals. light element that typically occurs at low concentrations rocks minerals, which presents challenges some analytical techniques (e.g., portable X-ray fluorescence) exploration. Laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) powerful technique acquisition simultaneous almost all elements periodic table. LIBS particular sensitivity (Z < 13) and, therefore, handheld significant potential exploration pegmatite- or granite-related mineralization. For this study, suite 16 pegmatite-hosted ore minerals comprising three main species (spodumene, lepidolite petalite) contained between 1.36 3.54 wt% was analyzed using instrument. A univariate calibration curve developed quantification these strong emission lines 610.36 nm 670.79 (R2 > 0.9, RMSD = 0.2 Li). Simultaneous contents measurement major ratios Si/Al) permits rapid discrimination different Li-bearing silicates, such as spodumene petalite, can be difficult identify field on basis macroscopic criteria. Moreover, detection minor/trace Be, Rb Cs possible by LIBS, provide useful information rare metal pegmatite granite Thus, qualitative quantitative analysis represents very promising approach