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Updated: Aug 15, 2026

Atmospheric-pressure Molecular Imaging of Biological Tissues and Biofilms by LAESI Mass Spectrometry
Published on: September 3, 2010
Improved sensitivity and mass range in time-of-flight bioaerosol mass spectrometry using an electrostatic ion guide
Gregg A Czerwieniec1, Scott C Russell, Carlito B Lebrilla
1Department of Chemistry, University of California-Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
Abstract:
Bioearosol mass spectrometry (BAMS) analyzes single particles in real time from ambient air, placing strict demands on instrument sensitivity. Modeling of the BAMS reflectron time of flight (TOF) with SIMION revealed design limitations associated with ion transmission and instrument sensitivity at higher masses. Design and implementation of a BAMS linear TOF with electrostatic ion guide and delayed extraction capabilities has greatly increased the sensitivity and mass range relative to the reflectron design. Initial experimental assessment of the new instrument design revealed improved sensitivity at high masses as illustrated when using standard particles of cytochrome C (m/z approximately 12,000), from which the compound's monomer, dimer (m/z approximately 24,000) and trimer (m/z approximately 36,000) were readily detected.
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