laser; analysis; substances; materials; environmental objects; chirp; filamentation; generation; pulse; radiation; sensitivity;SPECTROSCOPY

The main achievements in the analytical application of lasers, their potential applications, and prospects for further development of this field were described. The role of laser generation conditions and modes, especially of pulse duration, on laser applicability in analysis was discussed. The propagation of powerful ultrashort laser pulses (USPs) in transparent samples and the positive role of chirping and filamentation were considered. New methods of laser-inducedbreakdown spectroscopy based on ultrashort pulses, chirping, and filamentation were discussed.