Applications of LIBS to the analysis of metals

In this chapter we will discuss the basic theoretical principles of the laser ablation process on metal alloys, and will present successful applications of the LIBS technique to the analysis of such materials (aluminium alloys, iron based alloys, copper based alloy, precious alloys, and others). A special emphasis will be given to analytical applications of LIBS performed in line and/or in situ. © 2014 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.