Mapping capability of linear correlation statistics for characterization of complex materials using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy

In this work, the capability of linear correlation statistics for chemical mapping by laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) has been studied for the first time for the characterization of samples with compositional changes on surface and in depth. For that purpose, a corrosion layer of varied spread has been caused in brass samples by chemical treatment and afterwards analyzed by LIBS. Correlation depth profiles, two-dimensional (2D) correlation maps and three-dimensional (3D) correlation maps have been generated from LIBS data to contrast the results obtained from treated and non-treated samples and zones. Conventional LIBS maps based on signal intensity have also been generated for comparison. The conclusions of this study demonstrate the capability and benefits of using the linear correlation method for 3D mapping by LIBS of samples with non-uniform composition. In this sense, the proposed methodology has allowed to determine the location of the corroded regions in the analyzed volume, even in the non-treated zones also affected by the byproducts originated from the chemical attack, in contrast to conventional LIBS mapping based on signal representation. [Display omitted] •Linear correlation statistics applied to LIBS mapping of samples with non-uniform composition on surface and in depth.•Higher sensitivity to compositional changes by correlation 3D mapping method in comparison with conventional LIBS mapping.•Location of corroded regions in the analyzed volume of brass samples by correlation 3D mapping analysis.