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Published on: July 12, 2013
Microwave-induced plasma desorption/ionization source for ambient mass spectrometry
Xuefang Zhan1, Zhongjun Zhao, Xin Yuan
1Research Center of Analytical Instrumentation, Analytical Testing Center and College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
Analytical Chemistry
|March 29, 2013
Summary
A novel microwave-induced plasma desorption/ionization (MIPDI) source enables ambient analysis of diverse compounds. This stable, reproducible technique offers high sensitivity and broad applicability for chemical, polymer, and pharmaceutical analyses.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Plasma Physics
- Mass Spectrometry
Background:
- Ambient desorption/ionization techniques are crucial for simplified sample analysis.
- Existing methods may face limitations in sensitivity, sample preparation, or analyte range.
- Development of novel ionization sources is essential for advancing analytical capabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and characterize a new microwave-induced plasma desorption/ionization (MIPDI) source.
- To evaluate the MIPDI technique for analyzing various chemical substances, polymers, and pharmaceuticals.
- To demonstrate the MIPDI source's performance in terms of sensitivity, reproducibility, and applicability to complex matrices and liquid samples.
Main Methods:
- A microwave-induced plasma desorption/ionization (MIPDI) source was constructed using a copper Surfatron microwave cavity and a fused-silica tube.
- Stable nonlocal thermodynamic equilibrium plasma was generated using a 2450 MHz microwave frequency with argon or helium as discharge gas.
- Analytes were desorbed and ionized from surfaces (PTFE or quartz slides) or directly from liquid samples.
Main Results:
- The MIPDI source successfully generated stable plasma for ambient desorption/ionization.
- Protonated ([M + H](+)) and deprotonated ([M - H](-)) ions were observed for various analytes.
- High signal-to-noise ratio (463) and low limit of detection (60 pg) were achieved for phenylalanine.
- Analysis of polyethylene glycol 800 demonstrated ionization of analytes up to 1200 Da.
- Successful analysis of compounds in complex matrices and liquid samples without prior preparation was demonstrated.
Conclusions:
- The developed MIPDI source is a versatile and effective tool for ambient desorption/ionization.
- MIPDI offers advantages including simple instrumentation, stability, reproducibility, and high sensitivity.
- The technique shows significant potential for the analysis of diverse samples, including complex matrices and pharmaceuticals.
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