Free-running and Q:Switched LIBS measurements during the laser ablation of Prickle Pears spines

The pulse laser ablation (PLA) as a new method for spines elimination of Prickle Pear fruit is presented. The new technique works thanks to the use of the pulsed light that is absorbed in a selective way, specifically in the spines. An optical characterization of both spine and cactus cortex allows to find the most convenient pulse energy for selective absorption. By using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) in Q:Switch and free-running regimes, it is possible to control the process in real time and to check the cleaning results online. The feasibility of performing the laser ablation of spines without visible damages to the substrate was proved by the optical microscopy observation.