METHOD TO DETERMINE THE IDENTITY OF A MATERIAL IN AN OBJECT

摘要

A method and apparatus for determining an identity of at least one constituent on a soot that is deposited on a substrate is disclosed. The method includes the steps of sending a pulse of energy toward the substrate, focusing the energy to a predetermined point on the substrate to thereby generate a plasma on the substrate and to create at least one photon, detecting the photon using an analysis element, and identifying the constituent in the soot. The method may also include the step of determining the concentration of the constituent. Furthermore, the method may be used to determine the identity and concentration of at least one reactant in a flame of a burner or a reactant stream.