Identification and fragmentation study of plasticizers with post-source decay matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry

A detailed investigation of the most commonly used plasticizers, such as phthalate, adipate and trimellitate esters, using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOFMS) and post-source decay (PSD) MALDI-TOFMS/MS is described. It is shown that PSD MALDI-TOFMS/MS is capable of unambiguous determination of the different types of plasticizers. The determination of the types of plasticizers from different PVC samples by PSD MALDI-TOFMS/MS, without the need for solvent extraction, is also demonstrated. The fragmentation mechanisms of these plasticizers cationized with protons and sodium ions are also reported.