Study of Distribution of Atoms in Laser-Generated Plumes by Laser-Enhanced Ionization Spectroscopy

Laser-enhanced ionization can be used to interrogate the laser-generated plume. Relatively broad absorption spectral features due to the dense laser plumes have been studied by using two separate lasers to provide different vaporization and excitation conditions. By varying the time delay and the positions between the vaporization and excitation laser pulses, one can study the evolution of the laser-generated plumes. High sensitivity can be achieved even with the use of visible light for excitation.