Detection of bacteria by time-resolved laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy

Appl Opt. 2003 Oct 20;42(30):6184-91. doi: 10.1364/ao.42.006184.

Abstract

A laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy technique for analyzing biological matter for the detection of biological hazards is investigated. Eight species were considered in our experiment: six bacteria and two pollens in pellet form. The experimental setup is described, then a cumulative intensity ratio is proposed as a quantitative criterion because of its linearity and reproducibility. Time-resolved laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (TRELIBS) exhibits a good ability to differentiate among all these species, whatever the culture medium, the species or the strain. Thus we expect that TRELIBS will be a good candidate for a sensor of hazards either on surfaces or in ambient air.

MeSH terms

  • Bacteria / classification*
  • Culture Media
  • Equipment Design
  • Hazardous Substances / analysis*
  • Lasers
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Species Specificity
  • Spectrum Analysis / instrumentation*
  • Spectrum Analysis / methods*

Substances

  • Culture Media
  • Hazardous Substances