Long-distance remote laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy using filamentation in air

We demonstrate remote elemental analysis at distances up to 90 m, using a laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy scheme based on filamentation induced by the nonlinear propagation of unfocused ultrashort laser pulses. A detailed signal analysis suggests that this technique, remote filament-induced breakdown spectroscopy, can be extended up to the kilometer range. (C) 2004 American Institute of Physics.