In-situ detection of sulfur in the atmosphere via laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy and single particle aerosol mass spectrometry technology

The combustion of sulfur-containing minerals is one of the primary causes of various atmospheric and water pollution issues, including sulfuric acid rain. Considering that sulfur is particularly susceptible to oxidation in the air, the direct detection of sulfur via laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) has presented a major challenge. In this work, CS2 was used as a sample evaporated and atomized into the air. A new experimental device that combines the LIBS system with the single particle aerosol mass spectrometry (SPAMS) system was adopted for the direct detection of sulfur in the atmosphere. Under the optimal experimental conditions, the characteristic spectral lines of sulfur were observed and recorded in the LIBS spectra. Additionally, in the LIBS spectrum, CN molecular bands were observed, and the vibration and rotation temperature of the CN molecules in the experiment were obtained through software simulation. While the SPAMS system generates the real-time composition of a single CS2 aerosol particle, the isotope information of sulfur can also be distinguished simultaneously. Sulfur isotopes are widely used as tracers in chemistry, agricultural science, and environmental science research. Finally, the LIBS and SPAMS experiment systems can perform the direct in-situ detection of sulfur in the air and provide its isotope information. © 2021 Elsevier Ltd