Oliver Binns works for Corus Research, Development and Technology (RD&T) in South Yorkshire, where he develops analytical techniques for steel manufacturing. He joined Corus in 2007, after completing a degree in Natural Sciences at the University of Cambridge. Oliver is passionate about scientific research, and considers himself to be privileged to have access to the tools and knowledge he uses for his work.

Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy – The sky's the limit

Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) is a relatively unexploited technique, with  potential to revolutionise methods of chemical analysis. In this lecture, I will attempt to show how LIBS can not only deliver fast, accurate chemical 'maps' at high spatial resolution in the laboratory, but can also monitor industrial processes.

By taking real-time, in-situ measurements, LIBS can  increase process efficiency, protect the environment and, through remote analysis, make collecting these measurements safer. Although the work undertaken within Corus RD&T will be of primary interest, I will also show how LIBS is applicable to industries beyond steelmaking, and how for LIBS, the sky is almost literally the limit.