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Title: Activation of Large Ions in FT-ICR Mass Spectrometry

Journal Article · · Mass Spectrometry Reviews, 24(2):135-167
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1002/mas.20012· OSTI ID:15011640

The advent of soft ionization techniques, notably electrospray and laser desorption ionization methods, has enabled the extension of mass spectrometric methods to large molecules and molecular complexes. This both greatly extends the applications of mass spectrometry and makes the activation and dissociation of complex ions an integral part of these applications. This review emphasizes the most promising methods for activation and dissociation of complex ions and presents this discussion in the context of general knowledge of reaction kinetics and dynamics largely established for small ions. We then introduce the characteristic differences associated with the higher number of internal degrees of freedom and high density of states associated with molecular complexity. This is reflected primarily in the kinetics of unimolecular dissociation of complex ions, particularly their slow decay and the higher energy content required to induce decomposition-the kinetic shift (KS). The longer trapping time for Fourier Transform Ion Cyclotron Resonance Mass Spectrometry (FT-ICR MS) significantly reduces the KS, which presents several advantages over other methods for the investigation of dissociation of complex molecules.

Research Organization:
Pacific Northwest National Lab. (PNNL), Richland, WA (United States). Environmental Molecular Sciences Lab. (EMSL)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
DOE Contract Number:
AC05-76RL01830
OSTI ID:
15011640
Report Number(s):
PNNL-SA-39374; 6291; KC0302020; TRN: US200507%%389
Journal Information:
Mass Spectrometry Reviews, 24(2):135-167, Vol. 24, Issue 2
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English