An Investigation into the Importance of Polymer-Matrix Miscibility Using Surfactant Modified Matrix-assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometry

Abstract

Sample preparation, namely finding a suitable matrix–analyte combination, has been one of the most important concerns in using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) for synthetic polymers. Herein we report the novel use of surfactants in the polymer sample preparation procedure. Specifically, three nonionic surfactants were investigated for MALDI analysis of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). This approach resulted in major enhancements in the PMMA molecular ion signals with dithranol as the matrix. The results illustrate the importance of polymer–matrix miscibility in optimizing MALDI investigations. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.