Combination Atmospheric Pressure Solids Analysis Probe and Desorption Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry Ion Source

Abstract

The atmospheric solids probe analysis (ASAP) probe was investigated as a means for conducting desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) using a commercially available ion source. Solid and liquid samples as well as a raw urine sample were placed on individual melting point tubes and were inserted into either a heated gas stream for ASAP analysis or a charged solvent spray for DESI-like experiments. Samples ranged in polarity, volatility, mass, (100-17,000 Da), and concentration (neat to submicromolar). Mass spectra of multiple samples were obtained within a single acquisition on a short time scale (<30 s per sample). The configuration of the ion source also allowed rapid switching (approximately 1 min) between ASAP, electrospray ionization (ESI), and DESI.