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Atmospheric pressure ion sources
Thomas R Covey1, Bruce A Thomson, Bradley B Schneider
1MDS Analytical Technologies, Sciex, Concord, Ontario, Canada L4K 4V8. tom.covey@sciex.com
Mass Spectrometry Reviews
|July 24, 2009
Summary
This review covers advancements in atmospheric pressure ion sources since 1991, focusing on instrumentation and physical principles. It details electrospray and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization, addressing challenges like chemical noise and ion transport.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Mass Spectrometry
Background:
- Atmospheric pressure ion sources are crucial for interfacing diverse samples with mass spectrometry.
- Significant progress has been made in instrumentation and fundamental understanding since 1991.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review major developments in atmospheric pressure ion sources since 1991.
- To highlight advances in instrumentation, physical principles, and applications.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature focusing on electrospray and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization.
- Discussion of adaptations for surface analysis, ambient air analysis, and high-throughput applications.
- Analysis of techniques to mitigate chemical noise and improve ion transfer.
Main Results:
- Key developments in electrospray ionization (ESI) and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) are detailed.
- Adaptations for specialized analyses like surface and ambient air monitoring are presented.
- Strategies for reducing chemical noise and enhancing ion transport into vacuum are discussed.
Conclusions:
- Continuous improvements in instrumentation and understanding have expanded the utility of atmospheric pressure ion sources.
- Addressing challenges like chemical noise and ion transfer remains critical for future advancements.
- These ion sources are vital for modern analytical chemistry, enabling sensitive and versatile analysis.
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