Improved Q-switched ruby laser microprobe for emission spectroscopic element analysis.

Instrumental improvements in the laser microprobe system designed earlier have been developed. The chief improvements are (i) redesigned components in the laser cavity for greater stability, (ii) binocular viewing microscope equipped with optional phase optics and camera, incorporating safety devices to protect viewer and microscope condenser from laser beam, (iii) direct reading laser energy monitor with pulse indicator to show whether one or more giant pulses were delivered, (iv) interchangeable lens and mirror light-coupling systems for special uses, (v) retroalignment system for precise optical alignment of the sample plume and spectrograph, and (vi) the six-tube polychromator for multielement analysis.