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Quantitatively resolving mixtures of isobaric compounds using chemical ionization mass spectrometry by modulating the
1Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Montana State University - Bozeman, Bozeman, MT 59717, USA.
Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry : RCM
|July 24, 2008
Summary
This study resolves isobaric mixtures of acrolein and 1-butene using proton transfer reaction mass spectrometry. By adjusting electric potential, the method differentiates compounds based on their unique reactivity with specific ions.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Mass Spectrometry
- Chemical Kinetics
Background:
- Proton transfer chemical ionization mass spectrometry (CI-MS) detects acrolein and 1-butene individually.
- These compounds are isobaric, making mixtures difficult to resolve at m/z 57 due to similar proton transfer reactions.
- Acrolein and 1-butene exhibit differential reactivity with H(3)O(+) and H(3)O(+)(H(2)O) reagent ions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a method for resolving isobaric mixtures of acrolein and 1-butene.
- To utilize the reactivity differences between acrolein and 1-butene with specific reagent ions.
- To quantitatively determine individual compound contributions in mixtures.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a drift tube reaction mass spectrometer.
- Manipulated the electric potential applied to the drift tube.
- Systematically varied reagent ion intensity from H(3)O(+) to H(3)O(+)(H(2)O).
Main Results:
- Demonstrated quantitative resolution of acrolein and 1-butene mixtures.
- Successfully differentiated compounds based on controlled ion-molecule reactions.
- Established a method to overcome isobaric interference in CI-MS.
Conclusions:
- The developed method effectively resolves isobaric compounds acrolein and 1-butene.
- Control of electric potential in drift tube mass spectrometry is key to differentiating compounds with similar mass.
- This technique offers a valuable tool for analyzing complex mixtures in environmental and industrial applications.
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