Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

Issues In Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy For Measurements In The Deep Ocean And Other High-Pressure Environments, Joseph C. Bonvallet

Theses and Dissertations

This dissertation describes fundamental and applied studies that have advanced the understanding and application laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) to the deep-ocean environment and to operation on a deep-ocean submersible. Chapter one is an overview of LIBS including a brief history, LIBS theory, the instrumentation typically used, and a specific application. Chapter two analyzes the effect that monodisperse suspended particles have on LIBS emission intensity and on the formation of a LIBS plasma. This chapter demonstrates that for particle concentrations similar to those found in the neutrally buoyant regions around hydrothermal vents there is little effect on the LIBS emission …