Funding is provided for a proof of concept project to determine the feasibility of adapting LIBS (Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) technique for operation from a deep submergence vehicle in the ocean, with potential application to hydrothermal vent systems at mid-ocean ridges. A state-of-the-art ICCD spectrometer will be purchased and high pressure measurements of candidate hydrothermal vent materials in liquid phase will be analyzed. A major product of the proposed work will be characterization of LIBS at high pressure in the laboratory, from which important instrumental parameters, in situ calibration standards, and fundamental information about LIBS plasmas can be derived. They proposed to test, validate, and document the suitability of the LIBS system for operation from a deep submergence vehicle.
