Abrasive sampling system and method for representative, homogeneous, and planarized preparation of solid samples for laser ablation

A method for preparing a representative, homogeneous, and planarized sample from a solid sample for laser ablation, the method comprising:

• directing a laser from a laser ablation system onto a blank abrasive sampling system, the blank abrasive sampling system including one or more of a plurality of abrasive particles configured to remove sample portions from a solid sample through physical contact or a texturized surface configured to remove sample portions from the solid sample through physical contact, the blank abrasive sampling system having no sample portions supported thereon;
• and
• analyzing a chemical composition of the blank abrasive sampling system via a sample analysis system and generating a signal corresponding to the chemical composition of the blank abrasive sampling system.

An abrasive sampling system for preparing a sample for laser ablation, the abrasive sampling system comprising:

• a sample support structure having a top surface and a bottom surface, the sample support structure including at least one structure projecting outward from the bottom surface;
• and
• an abrasive substrate coupled to the top surface of the sample support structure, the abrasive substrate including a plurality of abrasive particles configured to remove a portion of a solid sample and hold the portion of the solid sample on the abrasive substrate between the abrasive particles while coupled to the sample support structure.