LASER ION SOURCES FOR TIME-OF-FLIGHT MASS-SPECTROMETRY

Different selective and non-selective laser induced ion and anion sources are presented as well as their combination with time-of-flight mass spectrometers either of linear or reflectron type. Resonance and non-resonance enhanced laser ionization methods and their features of photofragmentation are discussed, in their combination with inlet systems for neutral gases. Laser induced VUV- and electron ionization and laser desorption-postionization are illustrated. Techniques and applications of multiple laser excitation in the ion source and in the space focus are discussed to achieve synchronicity of two experiments or secondary laser excitation. Examples for laser spectroscopic and mass spectrometric applications are given.