Laser-based detection of explosives and related compounds

Laser-based spectroscopic methods offer the possibility of detecting compounds of interest with high sensitivity, in real time, without or with minimal sample preparation and therefore have a potential to be readily transferred for use in the fi eld. A variety of methods, including laser photolysis/laser-induced fl uorescence, laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy, as well as vibrational spectroscopies: Raman and coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering, have been studied and tested over the years for explosives detection. The fundamentals and preferred applications of these methods for standoff and point detection of traces or bulk compounds in the gas and condensed phases are discussed, pointing to their advantages and drawbacks with the hope that recent progress will bring them closer to fi nd their niche.