Laser-induced breakdown spectrometry as a fast screening sensor for environmental analysis of trace amounts of heavy metals in soils

Laser-induced breakdown spectrometry (LIBS) was investigated as a sensor for the rapid determination of trace amounts of heavy metals (Cd, Cu, Cr, Ni, Pd, Zn) in soils. The differences of plasma excitation with a XeCl excimer laser and a Nd-YAG laser and their influence on detection limits are demonstrated. The dependency of the LIBS signal on plasma temperature and particle fraction, use the intensity ratio of the analyte to reference lines in the plasma, and sample preparation are discussed. The measured detection limits meet the levels required for a screening technique.