Elemental mapping of biological samples by the combined use of LIBS and LA-ICP-MS

In this study a combination of Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) and Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) was used for laterally resolved elemental analysis of biological samples. In general LA-ICP-MS is an excellent technique for the analysis of many trace elements. However, bulk components such as H or O are not accessible using this technique. In addition to those elements, also some other elements that are difficult or impossible to investigate using LA-ICP-MS (i.e., F, N, Cl, etc.), could be detected by LIBS. In this work, the simultaneous use of LIBS and LA-ICP-MS (tandem LA/LIBS) for the analysis of biological samples is presented, opening the door for the possibility of complete analysis of the elemental composition of a human tumor sample. Results show good correlation with the histological stainings. The obtained distribution images provide a valuable basis for further medical interpretation.