A lot can be learned about compounds and molecules by assessing their molecular masses and the make-up of their structures. This knowledge can provide an understanding of a compound’s characteristics, such as its solubility and reactivity, and help enforce quality control, for instance in pharmaceutics, by identifying contaminants and impurities. A technique used to quantify the aforementioned attributes of compounds and molecules is mass spectrometry. It can deliver this information by examining ions and determining their mass-to-charge ratio (m/z) once they are categorised on a mass spectrum. The capabilities of mass spectrometry, including its extensive sensitivity, speed, and ability to identify compounds at small levels, sometimes at parts per million, and various isotopes in a singular element, means it is versatile, accounting for its application in a number of different areas, from the analysis of proteins to identifying evidence in forensics. Join us as we consider the diverse purposes of mass spectrometry and provide additional detail on its many uses.
Identifying Unknown Compounds
One of the primary applications of mass spectrometry is the identification of unknown compounds. By ionizing chemical species and measuring their mass-to-charge ratios, mass spectrometers can generate a fragmentation pattern. These can be compared against libraries of known compounds. Its comparison allows for the determination of the molecular structure and composition of an unknown sample. This capability is crucial in fields such as:
- Pharmaceuticals
- Forensic science
- Environmental analysis.
In these areas, the accurate identification of substances is essential for safety, regulatory compliance, and research purposes.
Quantifying Known Compounds
Mass spectrometry is also extensively used for the quantification of known compounds within a sample. This involves measuring the intensity of the ion signal, which correlates with the concentration of the sample compound. Quantitative mass spectrometry is vital in various applications, including:
- Environmental monitoring: Ensuring compliance with pollutant regulations.
- Quality control in manufacturing processes: Maintaining product consistency and safety.
- Biomedical research: Determining the accurate measurement of biomarkers, metabolites, and drugs in biological samples.
Analysing Gas and Vapor Composition
The real-time analysis of gases and vapors is another significant application of mass spectrometry. This capability is particularly valuable in fields such as catalysis, fuel cell research, plasma chemistry, and the thermal analysis of materials. By monitoring the composition of gases and vapors during chemical reactions or processes, mass spectrometers provide critical insights into:
- Reaction mechanisms
- Efficiency
- Product formation.
Real-time monitoring helps optimise these processes, improve efficiency, and develop new materials and technologies.
Studying Thermal Decomposition
Coupling mass spectrometry with thermal analysis techniques enables the study of gases evolved through heating or decomposing materials. Examples of these techniques include thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) or differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). This application is particularly useful for understanding the decomposition mechanisms and kinetics of materials like polymers, composites, and waste products. By analysing the evolved gases, researchers can gain insights into a material’s:
- Thermal stability
- Composition
- Degradation pathways.
This data is essential for developing new materials and improving waste management practices.
Food and Agricultural Product Authentication
Ensuring the authenticity and safety of food and agricultural products is another critical application of mass spectrometry. By analysing the molecular composition of these products, mass spectrometers can detect contaminants, adulterants, and verify the authenticity of the product. Applying mass spectrometry here can help prevent food fraud, ensure compliance with safety regulations, and maintain consumer trust. In the agricultural sector, mass spectrometry helps monitor pesticide residues, mycotoxins, and other harmful substances, ensuring the safety and quality of agricultural products.
Surface Analysis and Depth Profiling
Specialised mass spectrometry techniques allow for the detailed analysis of the elemental and molecular composition of surfaces and interfaces. These techniques include Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS). SIMS can provide depth profiles, revealing the distribution of elements and compounds below the surface layer. This capability is crucial for:
- Materials science
- Semiconductor research
- Nanotechnology.
Here, understanding the surface and interface properties is essential for developing new materials and devices. Surface analysis and depth profiling by mass spectrometry aids in characterizing coatings, thin films, and nanostructures, contributing to advancements in numerous technological fields.
Conduct a Thorough Analysis of your Compounds Through Mass Spectrometry
Mass spectrometers can provide a wealth of insights on different compounds, offering an understanding of their molecular weight, how they are structured, and what elements, as well as their atoms, are present. They act as identifiers, applying their abilities to shine a light into the unknown and define a compound’s properties. We, Hiden Analytical, have dedicated ourselves to delivering quality mass spectrometry technology to ensure the outcomes of research can be relied upon. A variety of areas, including pharmaceutics, security, environmental studies, and the food industry, rely on mass spectrometers working effectively to deliver accurate insights about different compounds, substances, and materials. This is why we produce equipment that can support these endeavours, offering in-depth analysis to help obtain the level of detail required. Browse through our mass spectrometry products and discover how they can help you uncover more data about various compounds.
