Optical Emission Spectroscope (OES) is widely used analytical technique capable of analyze all main alloying elements and identify exceptionally low levels of traces in alloys widely used at CERN (Fe, Ni, Cu, Al and Ti-based):

• Determining the elemental composition of a broad class of metals
• Analysing a wide range of elements from Lithium to Uranium in solid metal samples
• Covering a great concentration range with high accuracy and precision along with low detection limits

The working principle of the OES is based on the excitation of an atom by an electrical source (a spark is generated) within a metallic sample, inducing the emission of characteristic light. This measurement requires a small part of the sample to be heated to thousands of degrees Celsius. Two forms of electrical discharge can be generated, either an arc which is an on/off event similar to a lightning strike, or a spark – a series of multi-discharge events where the voltage of the electrode is switched on and off. These two modes of operation are used depending on the element measured and the accuracy required.

Furthermore, the OE750 system's portability offers greater flexibility to our materials experts.