Faster compound analysis by mass spectrometry--the ToF revolution

The introduction of the orthogonal Time of Flight (ToF) analyser has enabled ToF to be applied to continuous ionisation sources. In this technique, pulses of ions are ejected orthogonally from the main ion beam. This paper describes our development of techniques utilising the advantages of orthogonal-ToF for the analysis of small molecules especially drug substances. The fast scanning ability of the ToF enables its use with fast chromatographic procedures and can also be utilised to enable parallel detection of multiple LC columns. The medium resolution giving accurate mass measurement is utilised for faster and more reliable structural determination. These techniques are being used daily in our laboratories and some examples are shown.