The surface wave excitation microwave induced argon plasma (ArMIP) photoionization detector has been developed. When Ar was used as carrier and support gas, the construction and performances of three detectors of different structures were studied. The experimental parameters and detection limits (benzene) of the detectors were determine; the characteristics and ionization mechanism of the detectors were investigated. The detection limits and linear ranges for 22 compounds were listed using the detector with vertical tubular arrangement. Benzene, toluene, and ethylbenzene were determine in air samples with satisfactory results.

Key words: GAS CHROMATOGRAPHY, BENZENE, DETECTORS, PLASMAS, ARGON, PHOTODISSOCA, MICROWAVE