Dirty Physics: Applications of Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy in Soil Sample Analysis

Throughout Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, the EPA has designated abandoned properties that previous industrial or commercial activities left contaminated as "brownfields", or areas that are considered unsafe for development due to high levels of pollutants and contaminants. The soil in these areas often contains arsenic, lead, and other heavy metals that pose a threat to local ecosystems and residents. Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) can be a powerful tool for identifying trace amounts of heavy metals in organic samples. When the laser ionizes the surface of a sample, each element within the sample emits unique spectra. Using a LIBS system that includes a Nd:YAG 1064 laser, OceanView software for data collection, and a Python-based analysis system, soil samples from land bordering brownfield sites in Miami-Dade and Broward counties will be analyzed to determine whether heavy metals from these sites have contaminated surrounding areas. My research focuses on determining the ideal soil sample preparation for optimizing data acquisition when the LIBS ablates the sample. Further, I am working to optimize the LIBS system using optical alignment techniques and instrumentation research for noise reduction. This project is part of a broader effort to increase access to original research for high school students while contributing to environmental conservation in South Florida.