Remote isotope detection and quantification using femtosecond filament-laser ablation molecular isotopic spectrometry

Abstract

We demonstrate the detection and quantification of isotopes from solid samples remotely at a distance of 36 m. This was accomplished through the combination of femtosecond filaments and laser ablation molecular isotopic spectrometry (F2-LAMIS). Isotopically enriched graphite samples with varying 13C concentration were used and the F2-LAMIS emission was measured remotely using a fieldable spectrometer system. A standardless quantification approach was used to determine the corresponding isotopic ratios. The use of F2-LAMIS for the detection and quantification of isotopes at atmospheric pressure without the use of calibration standards opens the possibility to implement this technology for remote sensing of isotopes in field applications.