Abstract

High-resolution spectroscopy has emerged as a powerful non-destructive tool for detecting and characterizing geological fractures, which play a critical role in subsurface fluid flow, mineralization, and rock stability. This review synthesizes the state of the art in spectroscopic techniques—ranging from laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) and Raman spectroscopy to hyperspectral imaging and terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS)—and evaluates their methodological principles, spatial and spectral resolution capabilities, and data-processing workflows. We examine key applications in field and laboratory settings, including fracture mapping in core samples, remote sensing of fracture networks in outcrops, and real-time monitoring of fracture evolution under stress. Limitations such as surface roughness effects, penetration depth constraints, and signal interference are critically assessed. Finally, we explore emerging technologies—such as quantum cascade lasers, miniaturized fiber-optic probes, and machine-learning–assisted spectral analysis—that promise to enhance sensitivity, resolution, and deployment flexibility. By providing a comprehensive overview of methodologies, applications, challenges, and future directions, this review aims to guide geoscientists and engineers in selecting and advancing spectroscopic approaches for more accurate and efficient geological fracture identification.