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About

David Fobar develops advanced spectroscopic techniques to safeguard the long-term storage of spent nuclear fuel. His research centers on the remote detection of corrosive agents and structural damage in dry cask storage systems, a critical challenge for nuclear waste management. Fobar’s major contributions include pioneering a fiber-optic laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) method in a double-pulse configuration, enabling sensitive, real-time measurement of chlorine concentration on steel surfaces—a key precursor to chloride-induced stress corrosion cracking (SCC). His work on robotic LIBS delivery systems further demonstrates practical, non-destructive monitoring for these high-risk environments. With his most cited paper garnering 46 citations and a second receiving 36, Fobar’s impact is evident in advancing field-deployable sensors for nuclear safety. Notably, his 2018 studies on remote SCC detection integrate surface composition analysis with crack identification, addressing the interplay of corrosive environment, material susceptibility, and mechanical stress. For students and researchers, Fobar’s work exemplifies the fusion of laser spectroscopy, robotics, and materials science to solve pressing infrastructure challenges, offering a compelling model for applied photonics in extreme environments.