Date: Jan 15, 2008 Source: ARMY SBIR Success Stories (
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Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) is a major new field-sensor technology with unprecedented performance attributes including real-time response and high sensitivity. LIBS can detect chemical and biological agents, explosives, and toxic industrial compounds.
Currently, the Army is developing a field-portable (backpack) LIBS sensor with a handheld laser and broadband spectrometer. Current technology lacks the ability to measure sensitive signals, which could prevent critical hazardous warning signals from reaching the Soldier.
Envimetrics developed a spectroscopic enhancement technology to make the laser analysis technique significantly more sensitive. This enhanced LIBS technique can obtain parts per billion sensitivity and can also be configured so that it does not impart an imprint to surfaces. The man-portable unit, weighing less than ten pounds, will provide civilian and military first responders improved sensitivity so LIBS can provide instantaneous non-contact sampling and analysis of potential chemical, explosive, and biological hazards. The enhanced technique has reduced laser energy requirements and allows the technique to work with ultraviolet lasers that will reduce issues and make it more acceptable for field use.
Phase III Impacts:
Envimetrics has teamed with Ocean Optics, LLC to commercialize a LIBS system for desktop analysis of materials. Envimetrics has also teamed with A3 Technologies to enhance A3 man-portable and robotics-mounted LIBS systems. Yearly revenues from both military and commercial uses of this technology are expected to be $20 million within five years.
