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Updated: May 31, 2026

Analysis of Complex Molecules and Their Reactions on Surfaces by Means of Cluster-Induced Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometry
Published on: March 1, 2020
Analysis and modification of surfaces using molecular ions in the ambient environment
Ryan D Espy1, Abraham Badu-Tawiah, R Graham Cooks
1Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, 560 Oval Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.
Abstract:
The analysis and modification of surfaces in their native conditions can be performed using new mass spectrometric methods. Ambient ionization sources, including desorption electrospray ionization (DESI), have been implemented for the rapid analysis of unmodified biological surfaces including whole plant material, tissue sections, algae, and bacterial colonies. Recent advances have shown promise for in vivo and high-throughput clinical analysis. Additionally, the recent development of ambient ion soft landing (SL) allows polyatomic ions to be deposited onto surfaces in open air. Ambient SL offers speed, control, and flexibility for surface reactions and modification.
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