Rigaku Analytical Devices has introduced the Katana hand-held laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) analyser. It has been designed for on-the-spot identification of difficult alloys, including aluminium grades, with applications in scrap metal sorting, quality assurance in metal fabrication and positive material identification in petrochemical operations. Making use of the QuickID software allows results to be presented in less than 2 seconds. The analyser is IP 54 rated and smaller and lighter than many other hand-held LIBS and XRF analysers. A GPS and macro-camera allow for instrument and sample tracking.
