Expanding the Analytical Capabilities of Mass Spectrophotometry

A new FilterSprayTM module developed for the AccuTOF-DART Mass Spectrometer makes it possible to spot a sample on a disposable paper triangle for analysis by ambient ionization.

The optional module is a simple alternative to Electrospray Ionization that eliminates the need for a special pump or plumbing, spray needle, desolvating gas, or precise alignment. The FilterSpray module is easily mounted onto the linear rail of the AccuTOF-DART, to permit FilterSpray analysis on the sample platform. Samples and solvent are deposited onto a paper triangles cut from a porous substrate such as filter paper or chromatography paper.

Typical applications for FilterSpray analysis include: polar and highly charged compounds, cationic and anionic compounds, thermally labile compounds, polymers, inorganic compounds and metals, peptides, digests, and small proteins. Samples can be analyzed without the risk of cross-contamination and sample carryover.

Because the AccuTOF does not require any additional interface hardware for use with the DART, a variety of ambient ionization techniques are available to the AccuTOF-DART operator without removing the DART ion source. The third-generation AccuTOF-DART 4G system is an “ambient ionization toolbox” that allows the analyst to choose ionization methods that are best matched to the samples to be analyzed.

JEOL introduced the AccuTOF-DART in 2005 as the first commercially available ambient ionization mass spectrometer system. The atmospheric pressure ionization interface (API) for the AccuTOF system, originally designed as a simple, rugged and reliable LC/MS interface, became the ideal platform for developing the Direct Analysis in Real Time (DART) ion source.