Improved analytical characterization of solid waste forms (glass, metals, soils) by fundamental development of the laser ablation technology. 1997 annual progress report

'Laser ablation is a promising technology for chemical characterization within every DOE EM major problem area (high-level waste tanks, contaminant plumes, D and D activities, spent nuclear fuel, mixed wastes, landfills, nuclear waste disposal, and HEU disposition). This EMSP research endeavors to expand the fundamental basis in laser ablation technology for its application to these DOE characterization needs. Laser ablation must be understood on a fundamental level to ensure confidence in chemical characterization of environmental samples. The goal is to develop a fundamental understanding of laser ablation processes, and to determine the influence of these processes on analytical behavior (sensitivity and accuracy) in order to bring this technology to fruition. This report summarizes the research completed in the first year of this project. The initial work addressed: accuracy of chemical characterization by verifying that the ICP (inductively coupled plasma) was not adversely influenced by ablated mass; accuracy of ablation sampling versus laser pulse time; and sensitivity enhancements through the use of various gas environments. The research and development utilized an existing ICP-AES system. Part of the effort also included the evaluation, purchase, and installation of an ICP-MS system. Three scientific manuscripts were completed and submitted to technical journals. One of the goals of this work is to support the efforts at all the National Laboratories investigating laser ablation technology for the management of DOE radioactive, hazardous chemical, and mixed waste; collaborations with scientists at other National Laboratories have been initiated.