A real-time fiber-optic LIBS probe for the in situ delineation of metals in soils†

Detection-limit determination and field-deployment results for the SCAPS fiber-optic laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) cone penetrometer probe are presented. Probe design and issues concerning sample presentation and in situ matrix effects are also addressed. It was observed that a design in which measurements are made by a scanning optical system through a sapphire window in the probe produces detection limits that are at or below the EPA's site screening levels (SSLs) for Pb, Cd, and Cr in sand. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Field Analyt Chem Technol 2: 117–125, 1998