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Functionalized porous silicon surfaces as DESI-MS substrates for small molecules analysis
Nicolas V Schwab1, Moriam O Ore, Marcos N Eberlin
1Departament of Chemistry, York University , Toronto, Ontario M3J 1P3, Canada.
Analytical Chemistry
|November 5, 2014
Summary
Functionalized porous silicon surfaces improve signal stability and detection limits for small molecule analysis using desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (DESI-MS). These surfaces offer a better alternative for dried spot analysis, preventing sample loss and enhancing analyte dissolution.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Surface Science
- Mass Spectrometry
Background:
- Desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (DESI-MS) can suffer from unstable signals due to solvent splashing or washing effects on smooth surfaces.
- These effects lead to rapid sample removal, hindering reliable analysis of dried spots.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate functionalized porous silicon (pSi) surfaces for small molecule analysis using DESI-MS.
- To compare the performance of different functional groups on pSi surfaces regarding signal stability and limits of detection (LODs).
Main Methods:
- Analysis of small molecules using DESI-MS.
- Utilizing functionalized porous silicon (pSi) surfaces with varying functional groups (e.g., 1-decene, heptadecafluoro-1,1,2,2-tetrahydrodecyl trimethoxysilane).
- Assessing signal stability and limits of detection (LODs).
Main Results:
- Functionalized pSi surfaces, particularly those with hydrophobic groups like 1-decene and fluorinated silanes, significantly improved signal stability in DESI-MS.
- These surfaces enhanced the limits of detection (LODs) compared to smooth surfaces.
- Improved performance is attributed to balanced weak sample-surface interactions and increased surface area for analyte dissolution.
Conclusions:
- Functionalized porous silicon surfaces are effective for dried spot analysis in DESI-MS.
- Hydrophobic functionalization of pSi surfaces enhances analytical performance by mitigating washing effects and promoting efficient analyte dissolution.
