Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory are using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) to explore trees as a sustainable biofuel source for applications like powering aircraft and heavy vehicles.

This technology analyzes the elemental composition of plants and soil, aiding in bioenergy and carbon storage research.

It could help farmers grow bioenergy crops more sustainably and assist climate scientists in understanding how plants respond to environmental changes, including wildfires, Interesting Engineering has reported.

LIBS is being used to create chemical “fingerprints” of plants, a method developed by Madhavi Martin and her team.

Written by B.C. Begley