Abstract: | A simple device is described for desolvation of highly charged matrix/analyte clusters produced by laser ablation leading
to multiply charged ions that are analyzed by ion mobility spectrometry-mass spectrometry. Thus, for example, highly charged
ions of ubiquitin and lysozyme are cleanly separated in the gas phase according to size and mass (shape and molecular weight)
as well as charge using Tri-Wave ion mobility technology coupled to mass spectrometry. This contribution confirms the mechanistic
argument that desolvation is necessary to produce multiply charged matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) ions
and points to how these ions can be routinely formed on any atmospheric pressure mass spectrometer. |