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Published on: August 17, 2017
A pulsed triple ionization source for sequential ion/ion reactions in an electrodynamic ion trap
Xiaorong Liang1, Hongling Han, Yu Xia
1Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907-2084, USA.
A novel pulsed triple ionization source enables sequential ion/ion reactions in mass spectrometry. This advancement facilitates detailed studies of gas-phase ion chemistry by generating diverse ions efficiently.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Mass Spectrometry
- Physical Chemistry
Background:
- Sequential ion/ion reactions are crucial for analyzing complex gas-phase ion chemistry.
- Existing methods for generating multiple ion types for sequential reactions can be complex and require instrument modifications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and demonstrate a versatile pulsed triple ionization source for tandem mass spectrometry.
- To enable sequential ion/ion reaction experiments with independently optimized ion generation.
Main Methods:
- A linear ion trap-based tandem mass spectrometer was utilized.
- A pulsed triple ionization source with three emitters (nano-electrospray, electrospray, atmospheric pressure chemical ionization or nano-electrospray) was developed.
- Sequential pulsing of emitter potentials allowed for time and space-resolved ion generation.
Main Results:
- The triple ionization source successfully generated different types of ions for sequential reactions.
- Independent optimization of each emitter was achieved.
- The source was coupled to an atmospheric pressure ionization interface without instrument modification.
Conclusions:
- The pulsed triple ionization source is a valuable tool for studying gas-phase ion/ion chemistry.
- It offers flexibility and ease of use for sequential reaction experiments in tandem mass spectrometry.
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