This research project deals with fundamental and applied studies with the aim of better understanding laser-matter interaction processes in condensed phase using femtosecond lasers in an attempt to improve the analytical performance of laser-based optical emission spectroscopy and mass spectrometry for inspection of solid samples. Ablation using femtosecond lasers exhibits significant differences with that at the nanosecond timescale, where the concurrence of photochemical and photothermal processes taking place during the photon absorption govern the process. In the ultrashort regime, the several phenomena involved in the laser-matter interaction are markedly different. Thus, a prior comprehension of the processes is required in order to extend the range of current applications and improve the analytical results. The most important aspects of the project may be summarized in the following points that will be developed in several workplans:

1. Experimental determination of the energy threshold, temporal regime and macroscopic effects occurring in a variety of materials as a consecuence of the interaction with a laser pulse.

2. Designing of experimental strategies that will allow an improvement in the analytical signal for the mesoscopic and nanoscopic characterization of materials of interest.

The project is quite ambicious and plans the use of instrumentation already available in the laboratory of the research group, as well as the incorporation of new instruments for the setting up of novel experiments. The project will be completed in 3 years.

Research supported by Projects CTQ2011-24433 and CTQ2014-56058 of the Spanish Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad.