Nanoparticles in analytical laser and plasma spectroscopy – a review of recent developments in methodology and applications

The present review attempts to comprehensively overview the progress in the field of nanoparticle-related analytical laser and plasma spectroscopy research, focusing on the results of the past decade. The discussion involves the brief description of the motivation and principle of operation behind all existing technologies. As a novel approach, the connection between nanoparticles and laser and plasma spectroscopy is discussed in all three major areas: monitoring of nanoparticle synthesis, nanoparticle characterization, as well as plasmonic signal enhancement achieved by using nanoparticles. In each area, a detailed description of methodological developments and modern applications is provided.