Analysis of Magnesium Emission in Liquid Aluminum

This technical report presents an analysis of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) measurements of magnesium in molten aluminum. The study investigates the relationship between magnesium emission and melt temperature, highlighting the significant contribution of vapor phase magnesium to the overall emission signal. The report outlines the experimental setup, including the use of a neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser and the conditions under which the LIBS measurements were conducted. It details the thermodynamic considerations relevant to the vapor pressure of magnesium in the aluminum melt and discusses the implications for accurate chemical analysis in the aluminum industry. The findings indicate that the vapor phase significantly influences the measured LIBS signal, particularly for high vapor pressure elements like magnesium. This understanding is crucial for improving process control in secondary aluminum production and recycling, where precise measurement of magnesium concentrations is essential for quality assurance.