Elemental composition of marine organisms with calcium carbonate structures using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy

Abstract

Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy was utilized to obtain the elemental composition of a coral sample obtained off the shores of Mabini, Batangas and a Manila clam. The main elements that were identified were calcium, carbon, and oxygen−consistent with the chemical composition of the marine organisms. Additionally, their emission spectra closely resembled that of a high-purity CaCO₃ pellet used as a baseline reference. This investigation shows the ability of LIBS to detect elements within calcium carbonate structures in marine organisms, which can lead to further research aimed at detecting markers of reef pollution.