Development of a Dual-Source Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometer for Elemental and Speciation Analysis

Indiana University, Bloomington IN

Investigators

Abstract

With support from the Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) Program, Gary Hieftje of Indiana University will develop a dual-source time-of-flight mass spectrometer (TOFMS) for elemental and speciation analysis. The instrument will consist of an orthogonal TOFMS equipped with electrospray (ESI) and inductively coupled plasma (ICP) sources. It will enable rapid switching between the two sources to obtain both ESI and ICP mass spectra on the same sample or simultaneous detection using a simultaneous drift TOF with separate detectors for each source. Although the primary focus of this project is instrument development, it will provide novel interdisciplinary training opportunities for postdoctoral fellows, graduate and undergraduate students in modern, cutting-edge mass spectrometry techniques and allied research areas. The use of multiple source mass spectrometers has appeal in the fields of biology and environmental analysis. In addition, there is commercial appeal for instruments with multiple sources that do not require physical switching.