Tag-laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (Tag-LIBS): progress and prospects

Abstract

Tag-Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (Tag-LIBS) is an emerging technique designed to enhance the analytical performance of conventional LIBS using specific tagging strategies. This review of Tag-LIBS presents studies on its applications since its introduction in 2009. We describe the methodology of Tag-LIBS, with focus on the types of tags used, the mechanisms behind tagging, and the approaches used to achieve molecular or elemental specificity. In addition, we review common assay types and techniques for separation and enrichment that enhance both sensitivity and selectivity. Applications of Tag-LIBS in biomedicine, specifically in biomarker detection and bacterial pathogen identification, are highlighted, followed by an analysis of its capabilities compared to other bioassay techniques, considering metrics beyond the conventional Limit of Detection (LOD).