Femtosecond laser spectrochemical analysis of plant samples

Using a femtosecond laser-based technique, spectrochemical analysis of leaf samples is demonstrated. The study is exemplified for Fe. Standard reference concentrations – internal standards – of Fe in the two leaf samples were measured using the method of Relaxation Weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging. From the spectra obtained using Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy technique, spatial distribution of Fe within the leaf was identified. Thus, this technique could potentially be used as a complementary technique for identification of storage and trafficking of iron ions within different plant compartments. In particular, individual plant cells can be investigated without collateral damage with high spatial distribution.