Laser induced breakdown spectroscopy inside liquids: Processes and analytical aspects

This paper provides an overview of the laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) inside liquids, applied for detection of the elements present in the media itself or in the submerged samples. The processes inherent to the laser induced plasma formation and evolution inside liquids are discussed, including shockwave generation, vapor cavitation, and ablation of solids. Types of the laser excitation considered here are single pulse, dual pulse and multi-pulse. The literature relative to the LIBS measurements and applications inside liquids is reviewed and the most relevant results are summarized. Finally, we discuss the analytical aspects and release some suggestions for improving the LIBS sensitivity and accuracy in liquid environment.