Abstract

LAMPS, Laser Assisted Microwave Spectroscopy, is a plasma spectroscopic technique that has higher sensitivity to LIBS using little or no laser energy. The higher sensitivity is due to microwave energy extending the duration of the micro plasma for analyzing material. The sensitivity is enhanced a factor of 10 at wavelengths < 300 nm and 40 – 200 for wavelengths > 300 nm. The lower laser energy results in no surface damage. The technique can be used to determine the composition of materials and detect biological and explosive agents. Recently, the device has been miniaturize to develop a portable hand held instrument.

© 2012 Optical Society of America