Novel laser-based techniques for monitoring of volcanoes

An overview of novel laser techniques suitable for volcanic monitoring, based on different kinds of infrared laser sources, is presented. Their main advantages and drawbacks are discussed focusing on the achievable sensitivity and precision levels in analysis of gaseous species. Some of the most recent experimental results obtained in laboratory development as well as in field tests of home-built laser spectrometers are reported. New perspectives in optical devices aimed at geochemical and geophysical applications are also considered.