Laser induced multiphoton ionization mass spectrum of benzene

Abstract
Gas phase benzene is multiphoton ionized under low pressure, collision-free conditions in the source region of a time of flight mass spectrometer using UV excimer laser radiation. All of the ions generated are identifiable and derive from C6H6. The differences between KrF and ArF laser induced mass spectra and total ionization yields are interpreted on the basis of known fragment ion appearance potentials, and a rate equations model which describes the ionization process. The observed mass spectra exhibit certain characteristics not found in conventional electron impact spectra. These idiosyncracies may enhance its potential as a mass spectrometric ionization source.