Resonant laser photoionization in hollow-cathode discharges has been detected and extensively studied. The direct charge production and the high electric field in the cathode dark space, that permits a very fast charge collection, enable us to detect a photoionization signal much faster than the conventional optogalvanic effect. A theoretical interpretation of the signal is given, supported by a very good agreement between numerical and experimental results. Detection limits of this technique are also evaluated. © 1987 The American Physical Society.

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