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Laser spray: electric field-assisted matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization
1Clean Energy Research Center, University of Yamanashi, Takeda-4, Kofu 400-8511, Japan. hiraoka@ab11.yamanashi.ac.jp
Journal of Mass Spectrometry : JMS
|April 23, 2004
Summary
A novel laser spray ionization technique enhances liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry by using a laser to create mist from aqueous solutions. This method significantly boosts ion signals compared to traditional electrospray ionization.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Mass Spectrometry
- Separation Science
Background:
- Liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS) is a powerful analytical technique.
- Conventional interfaces like electrospray ionization (ESI) have limitations, especially with aqueous solutions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a new interface for LC-MS that overcomes limitations of existing methods.
- To introduce and characterize the "laser spray" ionization technique.
Main Methods:
- A novel "laser spray" interface was developed for LC-MS.
- Aqueous solutions were effused from a capillary and irradiated with a 10.6 micrometer infrared laser.
- High voltage was applied to the capillary to enhance ion signal detection.
Main Results:
- Laser spray ionization induced explosive vaporization and mist formation.
- Weak ion signals were detected, which significantly increased with applied high voltage.
- Ion abundances were orders of magnitude higher than conventional ESI for aqueous solutions.
Conclusions:
- Laser spray ionization is an electric-field assisted matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) variant.
- The technique is compatible with water as a liquid matrix, making it suitable for biological mass spectrometry.
- Laser spray ionization shows promise as a versatile LC-MS interface.