Utilizing an Electrospray Membrane Probe to Explore Fundamental Mechanisms Underlying Electrospray Ionization in Mass Spectrometry

摘要

Electrospray (ES) ionization includes oxidation and reduction reactions at conductive surfaces in the sample solution flow path. The type and concentration of electrolyte counter ion species effects Electrospray ionization efficiency. Electrospray ionization signal is enhanced when specific organic acid species such as acetic and formic acids are added to organic and aqueous solvents. Conversely, Electrospray ionization signal is reduced when inorganic acids such as hydrochloric or trifluoroacetic acids are added to Electrospray ionization sample solutions. Although mechanisms underlying variation in Electrospray ionization efficiency due to different electrolyte counter ion species have been proposed, explanations of these root modulators underlying Electrospray ionization processes remain speculative. A study has been conducted to shed light on the role of the electrolyte in Electrospray ionization.