Abstract
This paper compares the use of photoionization and flame ionization detectors (PID and FID. respectively) for the analysis of ethylene in plant physiological studies. It is shown that PID has the capability to analyse ethylene levels in the order of 1 mm3 m−3. This represents an increase in sensitivity over FID of several‐fold. Evidence is presented that this enhanced sensitivity allows for measurement of the rate of ethylene production from plants in continuous‐flow systems by taking air samples directly from the air stream, thus eliminating the need for selective collection and concentration of ethylene.