laser ionization

in mass spectrometry
Occurs when a sample is irradiated with a laser beam. In the irradiation of gaseous samples, ionization occurs via a single- or multi-photon process. In the case of solid samples, ionization occurs via a thermal process.
Source:
PAC, 1991, 63, 1541 (Recommendations for nomenclature and symbolism for mass spectroscopy (including an appendix of terms used in vacuum technology). (Recommendations 1991)) on page 1548
Orange Book, p. 204