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Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) has proven to be a powerful technique for in-situ elemental analysis across a wide range of applications. In recent years, there has been growing interest in extending this technique to extreme environments, where conventional analytical methods are impractical or impossible. One particularly challenging yet promising domain is underwater LIBS, which enables direct, non-destructive chemical sensing in complex maritime environments.
However, deploying LIBS underwater is technically demanding. High hydrostatic pressure, optical signal attenuation in water, turbulence and limited accessibility to measurement targets require robust system designs and adapted measurement strategies. The creation and detection of laser-induced plasma underwater differs fundamentally from atmospheric conditions, necessitating specific modifications to laser parameters and optical configurations.
This presentation highlights recent advances in underwater LIBS, drawing from a combination of fundamental research, field-tested systems, and applied projects. Among these are two research initiatives - LIBS60 and ROBUST - in which newly developed and deployed compact LIBS systems for submerged operation at depths of up to 6000 meters were used. The motivation was to analyze mineral resources, map the seabed and identify rare earth elements. LIBS60 contributed to a fundamental understanding of LIBS in deep-water environments, while laboratory testing and ROV-based field trials in ROBUST explored the practical implementation of the technology under realistic ocean conditions.
Additionally, the talk presents insights from the ongoing EU project NERITES, in which LIBS plays a central role as an integrated sensor system for long-term monitoring of material degradation in underwater cultural heritage environments. The project exemplifies the strategic importance of LIBS as part of a broader framework of autonomous, multi-sensor platforms designed for environmental intelligence in ocean technology.
By combining technical developments with real-world applications, the presentation provides a comprehensive overview of how LIBS is progressing toward reliable, autonomous operation in some of the most demanding environments. It also reflects on the growing importance of underwater LIBS in both scientific and industrial contexts - from deep-sea exploration and offshore energy systems to coastal environmental surveillance.
