Laser and microwave induced breakdown spectroscopy: basis for a new detection technique for chemical and biological agents

Laser-induced breakdown in air and solutions is a well-investigated phenomenon. The emission spectra are primarily atomic spectra of gases from air and volatilized metallic and other ions. Microwave-induced breakdown in solution has recently been observed. To accomplish the latter efficiently, a soluble organic semi-conductor must be added to solutions exposed to high power microwave pulses. When these same solutions were exposed to laser and microwave-induced breakdown conditions, peaks associated with atomic spectra and the organics were observed in both. However, some unique peaks were found in the microwave-induced breakdown. Therefore, cavitation generated by either laser or microwave pulses is anticipated to generate spectra analytical for specific chemical and biological agents.