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Previously, vacuum matrix-assisted ionization (vMAI) was employed with matrix/analyte sample introduction into the vacuum of a mass spectrometer on a probe sample introduction device. Low attomole detection was achieved, while no carryover was observed even for concentrated samples. Here, we report a new vacuum ionization source designed to duplicate the sensitivity and robustness of probe device while providing fast multisample introduction to vacuum and rapid sequential ionization. Exposure of a sample to the vacuum of the mass spectrometer provides spontaneous ionization of volatile as well as nonvolatile analytes without the need for external energy input. However, the novel source design described herein, in addition to vMAI, can employ a laser to obtain vacuum matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (vMALDI). In particular, ionization by vMAI or vMALDI is achieved by using the appropriate matrix. Switching between ionization modes is accomplished in a few seconds. We present results demonstrating the utility of the two ionization methods in combination to improve the molecular analyses of sample composition. In both ionization modes, multiple samples can be sequentially and rapidly acquired to increase throughput in MS. With the prototype source, samples were acquired in as little as 1 s per sample. Exchanging multisample plates can be accomplished in as little as 2 s, suggesting low-cost high-throughput automation when properly developed.

Sublimation has been known at least since the middle ages. This process is frequently taught in schools through the use of phase diagrams. Astonishingly, such a well-known process appears to still harbor secrets. Under conditions in which compound sublimation occurs, gas-phase ions are frequently detected using mass spectrometry. This was exploited in matrix-assisted ionization in vacuum (vMAI) by adding analyte to subliming compounds used as matrices. Good vMAI matrices were those that ionize the added analyte with high sensitivity, but even matrices that fail this test often produce ions of likely matrix impurities suggesting that they may be good matrices for some compound types. We also show that binary matrices may be manipulated to provide desired properties such as fast analyses and improved sensitivity. These results imply that sublimation in some cases is more complicated than just molecules leaving a surface and that understanding the physical force responsible, and how the nonvolatile compound becomes charged, could lead to improved ionization efficiency for mass spectrometry. Here we provide insights into this process and an explanation of why this unexpected phenomenon has not previously been reported.

Rationale The developments of new ionization technologies based on processes previously unknown to mass spectrometry (MS) have gained significant momentum. Herein we address the importance of understanding these unique ionization processes, demonstrate the new capabilities currently unmet by other methods, and outline their considerable analytical potential. Methods The inlet and vacuum ionization methods of solvent-assisted ionization (SAI), matrix-assisted ionization (MAI), and laserspray ionization can be used with commercial and dedicated ion sources producing ions from atmospheric or vacuum conditions for analyses of a variety of materials including drugs, lipids, and proteins introduced from well plates, pipet tips and plate surfaces with and without a laser using solid or solvent matrices. Mass spectrometers from various vendors are employed. Results Results are presented highlighting strengths relative to ionization methods of electrospray ionization (ESI) and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization. We demonstrate the utility of multi-ionization platforms encompassing MAI, SAI, and ESI and enabling detection of what otherwise is missed, especially when directly analyzing mixtures. Unmatched robustness is achieved with dedicated vacuum MAI sources with mechanical introduction of the sample to the sub-atmospheric pressure (vacuum MAI). Simplicity and use of a wide array of matrices are attained using a conduit (inlet ionization), preferably heated, with sample introduction from atmospheric pressure. Tissue, whole blood, urine (including mouse, chicken, and human origin), bacteria strains and chemical on-probe reactions are analyzed directly and, especially in the case of vacuum ionization, without concern of carryover or instrument contamination. Conclusions Examples are provided highlighting the exceptional analytical capabilities associated with the novel ionization processes in MS that reduce operational complexity while increasing speed and robustness, achieving mass spectra with low background for improved sensitivity, suggesting the potential of this simple ionization technology to drive MS into areas currently underserved, such as clinical and medical applications.

Ionization processes have been discovered by which small and large as well as volatile and nonvolatile compounds are converted to gas-phase ions when associated with a matrix and exposed to sub-atmospheric pressure. Here, we discuss experiments further defining these simple and unexpected processes. Charge separation is found to be a common process for small molecule chemicals, solids and liquids, passed through an inlet tube from a higher to a lower pressure region, with and without heat applied. This charge separation process produces positively- and negatively-charged particles with widely different efficiencies depending on the compound and its physical state. Circumstantial evidence is presented suggesting that in the new ionization process, charged particles carry analyte into the gas phase, and desolvation of these particles produce the bare ions similar to electrospray ionization, except that solid particles appear likely to be involved. This mechanistic proposition is in agreement with previous theoretical work related to ion emission from ice. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.

Electrospray ionization inlet (ESII) combines positive aspects of electrospray ionization (ESI) and solvent-assisted ionization (SAI). Similar to SAI, the analyte solution is directly introduced into a heated inlet tube linking atmospheric pressure and the initial vacuum stage of the mass spectrometer. However, unlike SAI, in ESII a voltage is applied to the solution through a metal union linking two sections of fused silica tubing through which solution flows into the inlet. Here, we demonstrate liquid chromatography (LC) ESII/MS on two different mass spectrometers using a mixture of drugs, a peptide standard mixture, and protein digests. This LC-ESII/MS approach has little dead volume and thus provides excellent chromatographic resolution at mobile phase flow rates from 1 to 55 μL min–1. Significant improvement in ion abundance and less chemical background ions were observed relative to ESI for all drugs and peptides tested at flow rates from 15 to 55 μL min–1. At a low inlet tube temperature, ESII has ...

An unexpected ionization process was recently discovered for use in mass spectrometry in which no added energy is required to convert condensed-phase molecules to ESI-like gas-phase ions. This process offers the opportunity to greatly simplify ionization and reduce energy requirements for use with portable mass spectrometers. Here we designed and constructed minimal ion sources specifically for the new ionization methods, and demonstrate conversion of compounds directly to gas-phase ions with high sensitivity using matrix-assisted ionization without a laser, voltage, or heat. A variety of inlets and sample supports were tested for sample introduction with this minimalistic source, include a contactless ‘vacuum cleaner’ approach for analyzing samples as well as laser ablation for high spatial resolution. The analysis is astonishingly simple and the mass spectra surprisingly free of background ions. Analytes tested range from small molecules (e.g. drugs) to nonvolatile compounds (e.g. proteins). These developments are potentially useful in a variety of vendor-independent applications, especially where simplicity, miniaturization, or automation are desirable attributes.

Atmospheric solids analysis probe (ASAP) mass spectrometry is an effective means for rapidly analyzing liquids, solids, or material surfaces by direct introduction into an atmospheric pressure (AP) ionization source. A sample is typically placed on the exterior of a disposable melting point tube and the hot gas from a heated electrospray ionization probe or an AP chemical ionization probe is used to vaporize the sample prior to ionization. While the method is operationally simple and effective, the requirement of a heated gas increases the complexity and expense of the ionization method, especially for applications requiring portability. Here we demonstrate a simple instrument independent source design which uses an infrared lamp (IR) to achieve sample evaporation prior to gas-phase discharge ionization. By miniaturizing the ionization chamber and vaporizing the sample in close proximity to the entrance aperture of the mass spectrometer, mass spectra are generated similar to the ASAP method, but without need for gas flow. The IR lamp can be switched on only when sample is present for more energy efficiency. Using similar amounts of sample, some compounds are more readily observed using the new approach while with others, dimer formation and oxidation are more prevalent.

Exceptional ion mobility spectrometry mass spectrometry (IMS-MS) developments by von Helden, Jarrold, and Clemmer provided technology that gives a view of chemical/biological compositions previously not achievable. The ionization method of choice used with IMS-MS has been electrospray ionization (ESI). In this special issue contribution, we focus on fundamentals of heretofore unprecedented means for transferring volatile and nonvolatile compounds into gas-phase ions singly and multiply charged. These newer ionization processes frequently lead to different selectivity relative to ESI and, together with IMS-MS, may provide a more comprehensive view of chemical compositions directly from their original environment such as surfaces, e.g., tissue. Similarities of results using solvent- and matrix-assisted ionization are highlighted, as are differences between ESI and the inlet ionization methods, especially with mixtures such as bacterial extracts. Selectivity using different matrices is discussed, as are results which add to our fundamental knowledge of inlet ionization as well as pose additional avenues for inquiry. IMS-MS provides an opportunity for comparison studies relative to ESI and will prove valuable using the new ionization technologies for direct analyses. Our hypothesis is that some ESI-IMS-MS applications will be replaced by the new ionization processes and by understanding mechanistic aspects to aid enhanced source and method developments this will be hastened.

Rationale Successful coupling of a multi-ionization automated platform with commercially available mass spectrometers provides improved coverage of compounds in complex mixtures through implementation of new and traditional ionization methods. The versatility of the automated platform is demonstrated through coupling with mass spectrometers from two different vendors. Standards and complex biological samples were acquired using electrospray ionization (ESI), solvent-assisted ionization (SAI) and matrix-assisted ionization (MAI). Methods The MS™ prototype automated platform samples from 96- or 384-well plates as well as surfaces. The platform interfaces with Thermo Fisher Scientific mass spectrometers by replacement of the IonMax source, and on Waters mass spectrometers with additional minor source inlet modifications. The sample is transferred to the ionization region using a fused-silica or metal capillary which is cleaned between acquisitions using solvents. For ESI and SAI, typically 1 μL of sample solution is drawn into the capillary tube and for ESI slowly dispensed near the inlet of the mass spectrometer with voltage placed on the delivering syringe barrel to which the tubing is attached, while for SAI the sample delivery tubing inserts into the inlet without the need for high voltage. For MAI, typically, 0.2 μL of matrix solution is drawn into the syringe before drawing 0.1 μL of the sample solution and dispensing to dry before insertion into the inlet. Results A comparison study of a mixture of angiotensin I, verapamil, crystal violet, and atrazine representative of peptides, drugs, dyes, and herbicides using SAI, MAI, and ESI shows large differences in ionization efficiency of the various components. Solutions of a mixture of erythromycin and azithromycin in wells of a 384-microtiter well plate were mass analyzed at the rate of ca 1 min per sample using MAI and ESI. In addition, we report the analysis of bacterial extracts using automated MAI and ESI methods. Finally, the ability to perform surface analysis with the automated platform is also demonstrated by directly analyzing dyes separated on a thin-layer chromatography (TLC) plate and compounds extracted from the surface of a beef liver tissue section. Conclusions The prototype multi-ionization automated platform offers solid matrix introduction used with MAI, as well as solution introduction using either ESI or SAI. The combination of ionization methods extends the types of compounds which are efficiently ionized and is especially valuable with complex mixtures as demonstrated for bacterial extracts. While coupling of the automated multi-ionization platform to Thermo and Waters mass spectrometers is demonstrated, it should be possible to interface it with most commercial mass spectrometers.

Vacuum matrix-assisted ionization (vMAI) uses select matrix compounds which when exposed to the vacuum of a mass spectrometer produce gas-phase ions from associated volatile or nonvolatile analyte without external energy input. Here, a vMAI source was constructed to replace the commercial inlet of a Thermo Orbitrap mass spectrometer. This allowed for rapid introduction of the matrix/analyte sample by a probe, contrary to vacuum matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) sources. The matrix/analyte sample is inserted into a region of the "S-lens" entrance, where the spontaneously formed ions can be effectively transferred to the mass analyzer. This specifically designed ion source requires no laser, high voltage, heat, or nebulizing gases. A low voltage is used to transmit the ions through the commercial "S-lens" assembly and airflow can be used to modulate the ionization event. A few picograms of the drug erythromycin, assisted by the 3-nitrobenzonitrile vMAI matrix, is sufficient to produce mass spectra for over 1 min with the MH

The survival yield (SY) method is commonly used in mass spectrometry to determine the energy deposited into ions by an ionization process. SY is the fraction of intact molecular ions that remain after fragmentation. In this study, we compared the fragmentation of three different thermometer ions as a function of various inlet voltages on an Orbitrap Exactive mass spectrometer using solvent assisted ionization inlet (SAII), electrospray ionization (ESI), and electrospray ionization inlet (ESII). The data shows that under the same inlet conditions SAII, which does not use a voltage, produces less fragmentation than either ESI or ESII, methods that use a voltage to initiate ionization. However, in the Orbitrap Exactive, fragmentation is more significantly related to the energy imparted to the ions during transition from the ionization region to the mass analyzer than to the ionization process. By minimizing the energy acquired during ion transfer to the mass analyzer, fragmentation is significantly decreased for the thermometer ions using any of the ionization methods. These results demonstrate that the ionization processes are insufficiently energetic to provide the necessary energy of activation for fragmentation of the thermometer ions studied here. By using voltages in the intermediate pressure region after the inlet tube to add energy to the ions during the transfer to the mass analyzer, differences in the SY are observed between ESI and SAII. The mechanistic implications relative to SAII and ESII are discussed along with comparisons with matrix assisted ionization inlet using the solid matrix 3-nitrobenzonitrile.

During the past 50 years mass spectrometry has advanced from a small molecule method to one critical to understanding biological processes. The ability to analyze compounds as large as protein complexes did not happen with any single invention, but occurred in steps. Thus, electrospray ionization can be traced to Zeleny (1917) and Dole (1968), but also to Colby and Evans (1973) with the demonstration of electrohydrodynamic ionization of organic compounds. Likewise, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization can be traced to early work with laser desorption by Mumma and Vastola (1972), and the importance of a matrix in analysis of nonvolatile compounds can be attributed to Barber et al. with the introduction of fast atom bombardment (1981). Here, we look back over the past 50 years at the development of desorption methods for the analysis of nonvolatile compounds and the associated attempts at understanding the mechanism by which solid or liquid phase compounds are converted to gas-phase ions.

Introducing water or methanol containing a low concentration of volatile or nonvolatile analyte into an inlet tube cooled with dry ice linking atmospheric pressure and the first vacuum stage of a mass spectrometer produces gas-phase ions even of small proteins that can be detected by mass spectrometry. Collision-induced dissociation experiments conducted in the first vacuum region of the mass spectrometer suggest analyte ions being protected by a solvent cage. The charges may be produced by processes similar to those proposed for charge separation under freezing conditions in thunderclouds. By this process, the surface of an ice pellet is charged positive and the interior negative so that removal of surface results in charge separation. A reversal of surface charge is expected for a heated droplet surface, and this is observed by heating rather than cooling the inlet tube. These observations are consistent with charged supercooled droplets or ice particles as intermediates in the production of analyte ions under freezing conditions.

Laserspray ionization inlet (LSII) is a new ionization method in which a laser is used to ablate a matrix similar to atmospheric pressure (AP) matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization, but with LSII, ionization occurs in a heated inlet linking AP and the vacuum of the mass analyzer. LSII produces multiply charged analyte ions similar to electrospray ionization. Here we use LSII to image tissue sections at AP with a mass resolution of 100,000 (50%, FWHH, m/z 200) and

Matrix assisted ionization of nonvolatile compounds is shown not to be limited to vacuum conditions and does not require a laser. Simply placing a solution of analyte dissolved with a suitable matrix such as 3-nitrobenzonitrile (3-NBN) or 2,5-dihydroxyacetophenone on a melting point tube and gently heating the dried sample near the ion entrance aperture of a mass spectrometer using a flow of gas produces abundant ions of peptides, small proteins, drugs, and polar lipids. Fundamental studies point to matrix-mediated ionization occurring prior to the entrance aperture of the mass spectrometer. The method is analytically useful, producing peptide mass fingerprints of bovine serum albumin tryptic digest consuming sub-picomoles of sample. Application of 100 fmol of angiotensin I in 3-NBN matrix produces the doubly and triply protonated molecular ions as the most abundant peaks in the mass spectrum. No carryover is observed for samples containing up to 100 pmol of this peptide. A commercial atmospheric samples analysis probe provides a simple method for sample introduction to an atmospheric pressure ion source for analysis of volatile and nonvolatile compounds without using the corona discharge but using sample preparation similar to matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization.

Solvent Assisted Ionization Inlet (SAII) produces ions in a heated inlet to a mass spectrometer from aqueous and aqueous/organic solutions with high sensitivity. However, the use of acid modifiers, which typically aids electrospray ionization, generally results in ion suppression in SAII. Here we demonstrate that the use of carbonation and other super-saturated gases as solution modifiers increases analyte ion abundance and reduces metal cation adduction in SAII. Carbonation is also found to enhance electrospray ionization. The mechanistic and practical utility of carbonation in mass spectrometry is addressed.

First results are reported using a simple, fast, and reproducible matrix-assisted ionization (MAI) sample introduction method that provides substantial improvements relative to previously published MAI methods. The sensitivity of the new MAI methods, which requires no laser, high voltage, or nebulizing gas, is comparable to those reported for MALDI-TOF and n-ESI. High resolution full acquisition mass spectra having low chemical background are acquired from low nanoliters of solution using only a few femtomoles of analyte. The limit-of-detection for angiotensin II is less than 50 amol on an Orbitrap Exactive mass spectrometer. Analysis of peptides, including a bovine serum albumin digest, and drugs, including drugs in urine without a purification step, are reported using a 1 μL zero dead volume syringe in which only the analyte solution wetting the walls of the syringe needle is used in the analysis.

RATIONALE: A new variation of sonicspray ionization (SSI) significantly enhances its sensitivity with an advantage of producing selective or more inclusive ionization by changing the polarity of the potential applied to an obstruction in the path of the SSI spray. This technique also provides high sensitivity with water solutions, which is difficult for electrospray ionization (ESI) without added organic solvent. METHODS: An Orbitrap Exactive mass spectrometer with an IonMax source heated electrospray ionization (ESI) probe operating at its maximum sheath gas setting was used for SSI. Both positive and negative polarities varying from 0.1 to 4 kV were applied to a metal obstruction positioned in the path of the spray using an atmospheric solid analysis probe. All mass spectra for this study were acquired in the positive ion mode. RESULTS: SSI using a variety of obstructions improved the observed analyte ion abundance of small molecules, peptides, and proteins by approximately two orders of magnitude. The addition of a DC or AC voltage to a metal obstruction further enhanced the abundance of analyte ions by an additional two orders of magnitude. The relative abundances of the detected positive ions were considerably altered by switching the voltage polarity on the obstruction. CONCLUSIONS: SSI with an obstruction improves the sensitivity of various samples compared with SSI. An applied voltage onto the obstruction further enhances the analyte ion abundances to approximately equal that of ESI but has the added advantage that switching the voltage polarity from positive to negative on the obstruction emphasizes different compounds present in the sample.

Combining electrospray ionization (ESI) and solvent assisted inlet ionization (SAII) provides higher ion abundances over a wide range of concentrations for peptides and proteins than either ESI or SAII. In this method, a voltage is applied to a union connector linking tubing from a solvent delivery device and the fused silica capillary, used with SAII, inserted into a heated inlet tube of an Orbitrap Exactive mass spectrometer (MS). The union can be metal or polymeric and the voltage can be applied directly or contactless. Solution flow rates from less than a 1 μL min(-1) to over 100 μL min(-1) can be accommodated. It appears that the voltage is only necessary to provide charge separation in solution, and the hot MS inlet tube and the high velocity of gas through the tube linking atmospheric pressure and vacuum provides droplet formation. As little as 100 V produces an increase in ion abundance for certain compounds using this method relative to no voltage. Interestingly, the total ion current observed with SAII and this electrosprayed inlet ionization (ESII) method are very similar for weak acid solutions, but with voltage on, the ion abundance for peptides and proteins increase as much as 100-fold relative to other compounds in the solution being analyzed. Thus, switching between SAII (voltage off) and ESII (voltage on) provides a more complete picture of the solution contents than either method alone.

Mechanistic arguments relative to matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry (MS) address observations that predominately singly charged ions are detected. However, recently a matrix assisted laser ablation method, laserspray ionization (LSI), was introduced that can use the same sample preparation and laser as MALDI, but produce highly charged ions from proteins. In MALDI, ions are generated from neutral molecules by the photon energy provided to a matrix, while in LSI ions are produced inside a heated inlet tube linking atmospheric pressure and the first vacuum region of the mass spectrometer. Some LSI matrices also produce highly charged ions with MALDI ion sources operated at intermediate pressure or high vacuum. The operational similarity of LSI to MALDI, and the large difference in charge states observed by these methods, provides information of fundamental importance to proposed ionization mechanisms for LSI and MALDI. Here, we present data suggesting that the prompt and delayed ionization reported for vacuum MALDI are both fast processes relative to producing highly charged ions by LSI. The energy supplied to produce these charged clusters/droplets as well as their size and time available for desolvation are determining factors in the charge states of the ions observed. Further, charged droplets/clusters may be a common link for ionization of nonvolatile compounds by a variety of MS ionization methods, including MALDI and LSI.

Exposures to organophosphorus nerve agents (OPNA) remain a threat to both civilian and military populations. Verification of exposures typically involves determinations of urinary metabolites or adducted proteins in blood. Urinary alkyl methylphosphonic acid metabolites resulting from hydrolysis of OPNAs provide a convenient marker for OPNA exposure. In a military setting, urine is a relatively easy sample to obtain, and a rapid turnaround for analyses for the identification of metabolites is critical for field commanders. Timely information on use and identity of OPNAs facilitates decisions regarding employment of personal protective equipment and additional strategies to mitigate additional exposure(s). Herein, we report the development of a rapid mass spectrometric (MS) method to identify OPNA metabolites directly from urine with no sample preparation. Synthetic urine spiked with multiple OPNA metabolites was analyzed using an atmospheric solids analysis probe (ASAP) attached to a high resolution mass spectrometer. The alkyl methylphosphonic acid metabolites resulting from hydrolysis of sarin, cyclosarin, soman, and Russian VX were clearly detectable down to a level of 1.0 ng/ml. The ability to rapidly detect OPNA metabolites in unprepared urine allows for the design of a field-deployable device that could afford field personnel the ability to rapidly screen individuals for specific OPNA exposure. In addition, this provides proof-of-concept evidence that a fieldable ASAP-MS device could afford personnel the ability to rapidly detect OPNAs on skin, equipment, and other porous surfaces. Published 2012. This article is a US Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

RATIONALE Steroids can be injected to behave as therapeutic agents to promote muscle growth and strength. Areas of concern include synthetic steroids in consumer meat and milk products and the presence of anabolic steroids in athletes. Here we demonstrate a new ionization method for high sensitivity steroid analysis using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS). METHODS Solvent-assisted inlet ionization (SAII) mass spectrometry was coupled directly to an infusion pump or to a liquid chromatograph to determine the limits of detection and quantitation for selected steroids. LC/MS/MS data was acquired on a quadrupole time-of-flight (QTOF) mass spectrometer and high resolution-accurate mass LC/MS data was obtained on an Orbitrap mass spectrometer. RESULTS The SAII limit of detection for infusion into the Orbitrap using high mass resolution and accurate mass was shown, for the steroids studied, to be low ppqt and the limit of quantitation using LC/MS was low ppt. Low ppb levels were detected with high signal-to-noise from spiked urine using a simple Ziptip procedure without sample concentration. CONCLUSIONS LC/SAII-MS is more sensitive than electrospray ionization (ESI) at similar mobile phase flow rates for the analysis of steroids. Previous studies have shown LC/SAII-MS to have high sensitivity for analysis of peptides. The combined results suggests this easy to implement ionization method may advantageously replace ESI for a wide range of analyses. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

A new inlet ionization method requiring no voltage or laser, and using water, methanol, or water/organic solvent mixtures, is shown to produce mass spectra similar to those obtained with electrospray ionization (ESI) for small molecules, peptides, and proteins, at least as large as carbonic anhydrase, with sensitivity that surpasses ESI. With the use of wide mass range acquisitions at 100,000 mass resolution on an Orbitrap Exactive, detection limits below parts per trillion are obtained for small molecules such as arginine, ciprofloxacin, and acetaminophen. Low attomoles of bovine insulin consumed produced a multiply charged mass spectrum. Ions are generated, even using pure water as solvent, within the heated inlet tube linking atmospheric pressure with the first vacuum stage of the Orbitrap Exactive. The extremely high sensitivity observed at this early stage of solvent assisted inlet ionization (SAII) development suggests that inlet ionization may surpass nanoelectrospray in sensitivity but without the need for extremely low solvent flows.

We propose an alternative for production of multiply charged ions that is based on the recent discovery that laser ablation of certain common matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) matrixes produce multiply charged ions at atmospheric pressure (AP) that are similar in charge state distribution to ions produced by electrospray ionization (ESI). In ESI and AP–MALDI, ions are primarily produced at AP before being transferred to the vacuum region of the mass analyzer. In this new laserspray ionization (LSI) method, the ionization mechanism is proposed to be similar to ESI, but with a solid rather than a volatile liquid solvent. Unlike in ESI, desolvation does not occur in the AP region, but in a heated AP to vacuum transfer region. Here we propose that highly charged droplets rather than naked ions pass the AP to vacuum entrance aperture before the multiply charged ESI-like ions are released into the viscous gas flow. Such a process offers a new and possibly highly sensitive method for ion formation in MS.

Laserspray ionization (LSI) mass spectrometry (MS) allows, for the first time, the analysis of proteins directly from tissue using high performance atmospheric pressure ionization mass spectrometers. Several abundant and numerous lower abundant protein ions with molecular masses up to ∼20,000 Da were detected as highly charged ions from delipified mouse brain tissue mounted on a common microscope slide and coated with 2,5-dihydroxyacetophenone as matrix. The ability of LSI to produce multiply charged ions by laser ablation at atmospheric pressure allowed protein analysis at 100,000 mass resolution on an Orbitrap Exactive Fourier transform mass spectrometer. A single acquisition was sufficient to identify the myelin basic protein N-terminal fragment directly from tissue using electron transfer dissociation on a linear trap quadrupole (LTQ) Velos. The high mass resolution and mass accuracy, also obtained with a single acquisition, are useful in determining protein molecular weights and from the electron transfer dissociation data in confirming database-generated sequences. Furthermore, microscopy images of the ablated areas show matrix ablation of ∼15 μm-diameter spots in this study. The results suggest that LSI-MS at atmospheric pressure potentially combines speed of analysis and imaging capability common to matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization and soft ionization, multiple charging, improved fragmentation, and cross-section analysis common to electrospray ionization.

Laserspray ionization (LSI) is a new approach to producing multiply charged ions from solids on surfaces by laser ablation of matrixes commonly used in matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI). We show that the only necessity of the laser for producing multiply charged ions is to deliver particles or droplets of the matrix/analyte mixture to an ionization zone which is simply a heated inlet to the vacuum of the mass spectrometer. Several other methods for delivering sample are demonstrated to produce nearly equivalent results. One example shows the use of an air gun replacing the laser and producing mass spectra of proteins by shooting pellets into a metal plate which has matrix/analyte applied to the opposite side and near the ion entrance inlet to the mass spectrometer. Multiply charged ions of proteins are produced in the absence of any electric field or laser and with only the need of a heated ion entrance capillary or skimmer. The commonality of the matrix with MALDI and the mild conditions necessary for formation of ions brings into question the mechanism of formation of multiply charged ions and the importance of matrix structure in this process.

A newly introduced high sensitivity laserspray (LSI) mass spectrometry (MS) method that uses laser ablation of a matrix/analyte mixture at atmospheric pressure (AP) to obtain multiply charged ions from nonvolatile as well as high-mass compounds is now implemented using a simple probe device. The probe used in the LSI approach was originally designed for sample introduction into an AP ionization source using the atmospheric solids analysis probe (ASAP) method. Multiply charged mass spectra of peptides and proteins in 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid matrix were readily obtained on two mass spectrometers from different manufacturers with sample introduction using melting point tubes. Here we demonstrate rapid analysis by placing four peptide and protein samples on a single melting point tube. Mass spectra were obtained at high-resolution and using ion mobility spectrometry/MS.

In the field of mass spectrometry,producing intact, highly-charged protein ions from surfaces is a conundrum with significant potential payoff in application areas ranging from bio-medical to clinical research. Here, we report on the ability to form intact, highly-charged protein ions on high vacuum time-of-flight mass spectrometers in the linear and reflectron modes achievable using experimental conditions that allow effective matrix removal from both the sample surfaces and from the charged clusters formed by the laser Ablation event. The charge states are the highest reported on high vacuum mass spectrometers, yet they remain at only around athird of the highest charge obtained using laser ablation with a suitable matrix at atmospheric pressure. Other than physical instrument modifications, the key to forming abundant and stable highly-charged ions appears to be the volatility of the matrix used. Cumulative results suggest mechanistic links between the ionization process reported here and traditional ionization methods of electrospray ionization and matrix-assisted laser desorp-tion/ionization.

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry (MS) is noted for its ability to produce primarily singly charged ions. This is an attribute when using direct ionization for complex mixtures such as protein digests or synthetic polymers. However, the ability to produce multiply charged ions, as with electrospray ionization (ESI), has advantages such as extending the mass range on mass spectrometers with limited mass-to-charge (m/z) range and enhancing fragmentation for structural characterization. We designed and fabricated a novel field free transmission geometry atmopsheric pressure (AP) MALDI source mounted to a high-mass resolution Orbitrap Exactive mass spectrometer. We report the ability to produce at will either singly charged ions or highly charged ions using a MALDI process by simply changing the matrix or the matrix preparation conditions. Mass spectra with multiply charged ions very similar to those obtained with ESI of proteins such as cytochrome c and ubiquitin are obtained with low femtomole amounts applied to the MALDI target plate and for peptides such as angiotensin I and II with application of attomole amounts. Single scan acquisitions produce sufficient ion current even from proteins.

The first example of a matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) process producing multiply charged mass spectra nearly identical to those observed with electrospray ionization (ESI) is presented. MALDI is noted for its ability to produce singly charged ions, but in the experiments described here multiply charged ions are produced by laser ablation of analyte incorporated into a common MALDI matrix, 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid, using standard solvent-based sample preparation protocols. Laser ablation is known to produce matrix clusters in MALDI provided a threshold energy is achieved. We propose that these clusters (liquid droplets) are highly charged, and under conditions that produce sufficient matrix evaporation, ions are field-evaporated from the droplets similarly to ESI. Because of the multiple charging, advanced mass spectrometers with limited mass-to-charge range can be used for protein characterization. Thus, using an Orbitrap mass spectrometer, low femtomole quantities of proteins produce full-range mass spectra at 100,000 mass resolution with

Polymer manufacturers add antioxidants, waxes, dyes, and other materials to enhance polymer utility or processing. Numerous analytical methods are available to characterize various chemical aspects of polymers including methods interfaced with mass spectrometry (MS) such as pyrolysis (Py), gas chromatography (GC), liquid chromatography (LC), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Current methods work well, but because of the necessity of extraction, chromatography, or thermal methods, most are too time consuming for high throughput analyses which might be necessary in, for example, regulatory laboratories. Here we discuss three MS methods for rapid analysis of polymers; multi-sample MALDI MS which allows rapid analysis of low molecular weight polymers, atmospheric pressure (AP) solids analysis probe MS for direct ambient additives analysis, and APPy MS for polymer identification. The latter methods provide information regardless of the composition or molecular weight of the polymeric material.

A recent report found that negative ion atmospheric pressure photoionization (Ni-APPI) and direct analysis in real time (Ni-DART) ionize compounds by electron capture, dissociative electron capture, proton abstraction, and anion adduction. The authors of this report suggested that the common ionization of Ni-APPI and Ni-DART demonstrated that these techniques ionize a wider array of compounds than negative ion atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (Ni-APCI). Here we show that Ni-APCI, using the atmospheric sample analysis probe (ASAP) technique, in the absence of solvent vapors, ionizes the same and similar compounds by the same reported mechanisms. These results are supported by previous publications, which show that each mechanism is active for Ni-APCI. This work demonstrates that irrespective of the initial method of ionization, at atmospheric pressure, similar ion/electron-molecule chemistries prevail.

4,7-Di-tert-butyl-2,2,9,9-tetramethyl-5,6-bis-trimethylsilanyloxy-deca-3,5,7-triene (14), 3,5-bis(1-tert-butyl-3,3-dimethyl-but-1-enyl)-1,2,4-oxadiphosphole (11), 2,3-di-tert-butyl-5-(1-tert-butyl-3,3-dimethylbut-1-enyl)-4-trimethylsilanyloxy-2H-phosphole (10), 2,4,6-tris(1-tert-butyl-3,3-dimethylbut-1-enyl)-1,3,5-triphosphinine (9), 4,5-di-tert-butyl-2-(1-tert-butyl-3,3-dimethylbut-1-enyl)-8-(1-tert-butyl-3,3-dimethylbutylidene)-1,3,7-triphosphabicyclo[4.2.0]octa-2,5-diene (8), cesium 3,5-bis(1-tert-butyl-3,3-dimethylbut-1-enyl)-4H-1,2,4-triphospholide (12), and cesium 5-(1-tert-butyl-3,3-dimethylbut-1-enyl)-1H-1,2,3,4-tetraphospholide (13) were isolated in in situ generation of α,β-di-tert-butylvinylphosphaalkyne (4) by CsF-catalyzed methodology between tris(trimethylsilyl)phosphine (6) and Z-2-tert-butyl-4,4-dimethylpent-2-enoyl chloride (7). The preference of cycloaddition reactions on the CP triple bond over the CC double bond was observed. The introduction of a vinyl moiety led to the suppression of...

1-Methyl-3,5-bis(2,4,6-tri-tert-butylphenyl)-1H-[1,2,4]triphosphole (6) and 1-benzyl-3,5-bis(2,4,6-tri-tert-butylphenyl)-1H-[1,2,4]triphosphole (7) were synthesized and isolated with among the most planar and least sterically hindered σ3,λ3-phosphorus atoms, which are an indication of the aromaticity of this heterocycle. The sums of the bond angles at the σ3,λ3-phosphorus atoms in 6 and 7 are close to 360°. σ3,λ3-Phosphorus atoms in 6 and 7 have substantial deshielded chemical shifts at 151.86 and 161.71 ppm in the 31P NMR spectra. The parental trimethylphosphine and tribenzylphosphine with pyramidal phosphorus atoms have chemicals shifts at −62.0 and −10.4 ppm. There are large P−P coupling constants: 1JPP = 549.7 Hz for 6 and 553.3 Hz for 7. This is further evidence of a significant delocalization of the electron density in these polyphosphorus heterocycles. Compound 7 reacts with sulfur to afford 3-benzyl-2,4-bis(2,4,6-tri-tert-butylphenyl)-6,7-dithia-1,3λ5,5-triphosphabicyclo[3.1.1]hepta-2,3-diene 1,5-...

Cesium 3,5-bis(2,4,6-tri-tert-butylphenyl)-1,2,4-triphospholide (12) and cesium 5-(2,4,6-tri-tert-butylphenyl)tetraphospholide (13) were synthesized and isolated with flat five-membered rings, which are an indication of the aromaticity in these anions. Compound 13 is the first example of a stable tetraphospholide anion, which is structurally characterized. Kinetic stabilization of the 1,2,4-triphospholide system by two supermesityl groups resulted in the detection of the room-temperature-stable radical 17 and the observation of a series of successive sigmatropic hydrogen shifts in the first stable 1H-1,2,4-triphosphole 14 with a P–H bond.(© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)

1-(2,4,6-Tri-tert-butylphenyl)-1H-[1,2]diphosphole (12) was isolated from the unintentional and unexpected dehydrohalogenation of 1,3-bis(chloro(2,4,6-tri-tert-butylphenyl)phosphino)propane (5) with DBN. 1H-[1,2]Diphosphole 12 has substantial bond delocalization within the diphosphole system. Remarkably, the shortest P−C bond in the ring (1.725(4) A) is observed for a nominal P−C single bond with the tricoordinated phosphorus atom. The P−P distance (2.0750(18) A) in 12 is closer to the value for a PP bond than for a P−P bond. The sum of the bond angles at the tricoordinated phosphorus atom in 12 is 351.3°, making 12 the most planar 1H-[1,2]diphosphole known to date. The 31P NMR spectrum of 12 contains very similar chemical shifts for the tri- and dicoordinated phosphorus atoms (90.83 and 133.80 ppm), with a large P−P coupling constant (2JPP = 528.2 Hz). This is further evidence of significant delocalization of the lone pair electrons of the tricoordinated phosphorus into the ring system and is consistent ...

A limitation of any current approach using solvent-free MALDI mass spectrometry is that only one sample at a time can be prepared and transferred to the MALDI-plate. For this reason, multiple-sample preparation approaches for solvent-free MALDI MS analysis of synthetic polymers were developed that are simple and practical. One approach multiplexed sample preparation by simultaneously preparing multiple samples. With this approach, as many as 384 samples could be prepared by addition of analyte, matrix, salt, and 1-mm metal beads to each well of a 384-well disposable bacti plate, capping the plate with the lid and homogenizing all samples simultaneously using a common laboratory vortex device. Besides the time savings achieved by a single vortex step for multiple samples, an additional advantage of this method relative to previously reported solvent-free preparation methods is that the mixing volume per sample is reduced, which allows a reduction in the amount of analyte required. This method, however, still requires the transfer of each homogenized sample to the MALDI plate for subsequent analysis. Here we report a novel approach that combines multiple simultaneous solvent-free sample preparation with automatic sample transfer to the MALDI target plate. This approach reduces the possibility of cross-contamination, the amount of sample and matrix consumed for an analysis, and the time required for preparation of multiple samples. These methods were shown to provide high-quality mass spectra for various synthetic polymer standards with M(n) values to 10 kDa. The methods are efficient in that small sample amounts are required, the sample/salt/matrix ratio is not critical, and the time necessary to achieve sufficient homogenization of multiple samples is less than 5 min.

Atmospheric pressure (AP) GC/MS was first introduced by Horning et al. [E.C. Horning, M.G. Horning, D.I. Carroll, I. Dzidic, R.N. Stillwell, Anal. Chem. 45 (1973) 936] using 63 Ni as a beta-emitter for ionization. Because, at the time special instrumentation was required, the technique was only applied with consistency to negative ion environmental studies where high sensitivity was required [T. Kinouchi, A.T.L. Miranda, L.G. Rushing, F.A. Beland, W.A. Korfmacher, J. High Resolut. Chromatogr., Chromatogr. Commun. 13 (1990) 281]. Currently, AP ion sources are commonly available on LC/MS instruments and recently a method was reported for converting an AP-LC/MS ion source to a combination AP-LC/MS:GC/MS source [C.N. McEwen, R.G. McKay, J. Am. Soc. Mass Spectrom. 16 (2005) 1730]. Here, we report the use of atmospheric pressure photoionization (APPI) with GC/MS and compare this to AP chemical ionization (APCI) GC/MS and electron ionization (EI) GC/MS. Using a nitrogen purge gas, we observe excellent chromatographic resolution and abundant molecular M + and MH + ions as well as structurally significant fragment ions. Comparison of a 9.8 eV UV lamp with a 10.6 eV lamp, as expected, shows that the higher energy lamp gives more universal ionization and more fragment ions than the lower energy lamp. While there are clear differences in the fragment ions observed by APPI-MS versus EI-MS, there are also similarities. As might be expected from the ionization mechanism, APPI ionization is similar to low energy EI. These odd electron fragment ions are useful in identifying unknown compounds by comparison to mass spectra in computer libraries.

In matrix-assisted ionization (MAI), analyte incorporated in a small molecule matrix is introduced into an aperture linking atmospheric pressure with the vacuum of a mass spectrometer. Gas-phase analyte ions are spontaneously produced without use of a laser or high voltage. Here we investigate analyte and background ion abundances upon addition of ammonium salts to various MAI matrix/analyte solutions. Regardless of the ammonium salt or matrix used, chemical background ions are suppressed and/or analyte ion abundance improved for basic small molecules, peptides, and proteins. Background ion abundances increase with increasing inlet temperature, but are suppressed with addition of any of a variety of ammonium salts without much effect on the total ion abundances of the analyte ions. However, at lower inlet temperature using the matrices 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol, 1,2-dicyanobenzene, and 3-nitrobenzonitrile (3-NBN), analyte ion abundance increases and any chemical background decreases upon addition of ammonium salt. The improvement in sensitivity using 3-NBN with ammonium salt allows full acquisition mass spectra consuming as little as 1 fmol of ubiquitin. More complete peptide coverage for 100 fmol of a BSA tryptic digest, and increased sensitivity of drugs spiked in urine and saliva were observed after ammonium salt addition to the 3-NBN matrix.

Modification of commercial LC/MS instrumentation to allow both atmospheric pressure (AP) LC/MS and GC/MS is described. Advantages of this additional capability versus LC/MS alone include higher chromatographic resolution in the GC versus LC mode, greater peak capacity for complex mixture analysis, higher sensitivity for a variety of volatile compounds, and the ability to observe compounds of low polarity that are not readily observed in LC/MS. Advantages over conventional GC/MS include the ability to use higher carrier gas flow and shorter columns for passing less volatile materials through the gas chromatograph, selective ionization, and rapid switching between positive and negative ion modes. Other advantages include application of the enhanced capabilities of LC/MS instrumentation to GC/MS analyses such as cone voltage fragmentation, MS(n), high mass resolution, and accurate mass measurement. Limitations of APGC/MS include the inability to observe saturated hydrocarbon and certain other highly nonpolar compounds and less odd-electron fragmentation for computer aided library searching. For some analyses, the limitation related to ionization of highly nonpolar compounds is advantageous, as is the simplified mass spectrum and easy molecular weight identification that results from less fragmentation observed in the AP ionization mode.

The field of proteomics requires methods that offer high sensitivity and wide dynamic range. One of the strategies used to improve the dynamic range is sample prefractionation, such as microsolution isoelectric focusing (IEF). We have modified a commercial solution IEF instrument, the Rotofor®, to prefractionate protein mixtures by carrier ampholyte-free solution IEF. The focusing chamber of the Rotofor was divided into several compartments by polyacrylamide membranes with imbedded Immobiline mixtures of specific pH values. When an electric field is applied, each protein migrates to the compartment confined by membranes with pH values flanking its isoelectric point. The approach was demonstrated for the focusing of myoglobin into a predicted compartment, as well as the separation of a complex soluble yeast protein mixture into several distinct fractions. The proteins were dissolved in water or 30% isopropanol. The method is applicable to both gel-based and solution-phase protein identification methods, without the need for further sample preparation.

Pyrolysis-photoionization mass spectrometry with coherent vacuum-ultraviolet radiation was used to study ethylene-methyl acrylate copolymers having a wide range of compositions and molecular weights. Samples were pyrolyzed under vacuum with a fast heating rate of ≈4 °C s −1 in the source of the mass spectrometer. The mass spectra were found to reflect changes in the methyl acrylate incorporation, though not in a straightforward fashion. Chemometric analysis (Partial Least Squares) was performed on the spectra in order to create a model for prediction of copolymer composition in the range of 2.8 mol.% methyl acrylate to 20.5%. The method was found to determine copolymer composition accurately and expediently, though with limited ability to discriminate against blends of copolymer with homopolymers of either component.