Laser Induced Breakdown Spectrometry

This chapter discusses laser induced breakdown spectrometry. A brief introduction to the theory is followed by its advantages and disadvantages. Its ability to operate in a standoff mode and to operate on production lines as well as requiring minimal sample preparation means that this technique is gaining in popularity and is regarded as being an atomic spectrometry superstar in the making. The largest of its disadvantages is the problem with calibration. This has been the subject of intense research over the last 10 years with numerous models presented. It is envisaged that once this problem is solved, its true potential will be realised. A hints and tips section is also provided. It is also noted that portable instrumentation is now available commercially meaning that its use can be extended to applications where portable XRF has dominated.