Laser-based spectroscopic technique for subsurface measurements

While most of the traditional techniques have limitations for subsurface measurements, a laser-based technique known as laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) has appeared as a promising tool for continuous monitoring in surface and subsurface levels. LIBS is suitable even in harsh environments, including high temperature and pressure for stand-off measurements. In this presentation, optical designs of benchtop setup and miniaturized probe will be discussed for multi-elemental detection. The results obtained from experiments for detection and quantification of selected analytes including critical and hazardous elements will be presented.