Applications of liquid chromatography/dynamic liquid secondary ion mass spectrometry in structural elucidation...

The application of post-column splitting in liquid chromatography (LC) coupled to dynamic liquid secondary ion (or continuous-flow fast atom bombardment) mass spectrometry allows more flexibility with respect to the use of conventional LC methods. Gradient elution and the presence of involatile mobile phase modifiers do not therefore constitute insurmountable obstacles, especially in experiments where sensitivity is of secondary importance, such as in structural identification studies. The possibility of using conventional LC conditions presents a valuable gain in time by avoiding lengthy LC redevelopment procedures. This means a non-negligible asset in an environment where rapid answers are necessary.