Study of the laser photodissociation of Al(CH3)3

UV and visible multiphoton dissociation of Al(CH3)3 (m-TMA) have been investigated by mass spectrometry detection of ionic photofragments. The relative abundances of Al+ and C+ ions and the law of production were monitored as a function of photolysis wavelength and power density. Mass spectra are recorded in order to compare the relative abundance of C+, CH+, CH2+, CH3+ and Al+ ions. Photolysis in the UV range leads preferentially to the production of Al+ whereas 532 nm all the studied species are present in the same proportion. The mechanisms of dissociation of TMA are discussed following a set of working hypotheses.