Applied Spectra’s RT100-HP LIBS System Enhances Inorganic Measurement at Idaho National Lab

High-speed Testing, No Sample Preparation Lead to Faster Throughput

FREMONT, Calif. (April 2, 2009) — Applied Spectra, Inc., a leading provider of laser-based test equipment for elemental chemical analysis, announced today that its RT-100-HP LIBS (Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) system has been installed and accepted by researchers at Idaho National Labs (INL). The system was installed in the Materials Science and Engineering Department of INL, which is a science-based, applied engineering national laboratory dedicated to supporting the U.S. Department of Energy. The RT100-HP will be used for rapid quantitative and qualitative analytical applications on a variety of inorganic materials.

“Laser Induced breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) provides fast test times and repeatable results with detection limits in the low parts per million,” said Dr. Judy Partin, Staff Scientist at INL. “By eliminating sample preparation, our throughput will be greatly enhanced allowing for an increase in unique samples to be analyzed. Having the ability to identify much of the periodic table in a variety of matrices gives us flexibility across a wide selection of applications.”

“We are pleased with INL’s decision to invest in LIBS” said Dr. Rick Russo, President of Applied Spectra. “The analytical performance of LIBS rivals that of bulk dissolution-based analytical instruments, while eliminating the need for toxic chemicals during sample preparation. This system can grow with INL’s needs. LIBS’ wide sample capability will enable INL to easily perform a variety of analyses to meet their needs today and well into the future.”

About Idaho National Lab

Idaho National Laboratory (www.inl.gov) is one of the U.S. Department of Energy’s 10 multiprogram national laboratories. The laboratory performs work in each of the strategic goal areas of DOE – energy, national security, science and environment. INL is the nation’s leading center of nuclear energy research and development. Day-to-day management and operation of the laboratory is the responsibility of Battelle Energy Alliance.

About Applied Spectra

Applied Spectra is a leading supplier of laser-based analytical instruments. Our unique, highly automated products harness the latest in laser ablation analysis techniques. We simplify the process of elemental chemical analysis, while delivering rapid, high-precision results that are environmentally friendly. Founded in 2004, we have a manufacturing, research and development facility in Fremont, CA, USA.

For more information, visit: www.appliedspectra.com.