A LIBS spectral database obtained in Martian conditions with an echelle spectrometer for in situ analysis of Mars soils and rocks

摘要

LIBS method is well-known for its numerous advantages such as 1) rapid analysis, 2) simultaneous multi-elemental detection, 3) detection of high and low z elements, 4) ability to drill onto the sample up to several hundreds of micrometers and 5) stand-off analysis capability. A project called MALIS (Mars elemental Analysis by Laser Induced breakdown Spectroscopy) is under study to perform in situ geochemical analysis of Mars soils and rocks. To demonstrate its feasibility, a laboratory set-up is tested in order to determine the specific characteristics of the laser, the optical components and the detection system that could be mounted on a rover. Thus, the achievement of a LIBS spectral database under Mars atmospheric conditions seems to be of major importance to observe the actual sensitive emission lines for each element of interest without any interference and to ensure a reliable recognition of elemental composition of rock and soil in Mars atmospheric conditions.