Electrospray ionization (ESI) tandem mass spectrometric analysis of meso-tetrakis(Heptafluoropropyl)porphyrin.

The results of an electrospray ionization (ESI(+) and ESI(-)) collision-induced fragmentation investigation of meso-tetrakis(heptafluoropropyl)porphyrin (T(F)HP) are reported. The fragmentation patterns of T(F)HP show, in both ionization modes, the formation of fragments with direct covalent meso-alkyl-to-beta-linkages on elimination of HF. In addition, in the ESI(+) mode, the losses of perfluoroalkyl radicals are observed. A detailed analysis of the fragmentation patterns allows conclusions to be drawn on the identification of the fragment species. Comparable cyclized products were previously produced using radical-initiated solution-phase syntheses. The results presented will help to analyze meso-perfluoroalkyl-derivatized porphyrinic macrocycles that are becoming increasingly popular.