Determination of the species generated in atmospheric-pressure laser-induced plasmas by mass spectrometry techniques

We present temporal information obtained by mass spectrometry techniques about the evolution of plasmas generated by laser filamentation in air. The experimental setup used in this work allowed us to study not only the dynamics of the filament core but also the energy reservoir that surrounds it. Furthermore, valuable insight into the chemistry of systems such as the photofragmentation and/or formation of molecules was obtained. The interpretation of the experimental results are supported by PIC (particle in cell) simulations.