Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (TOFMS)
Time-of-flight mass spectrometry (TOF-MS) is a method of mass spectrometry in which ions mass-to-charge ratio is determined via a time measurement.
How does it work?
Ions are accelerated by an electric field of known strength. This acceleration results in an ion having the same kinetic energy as any other ion that has the same charge. The velocity of the ion depends on the mass-to-charge ratio.
The time that it subsequently takes for the particle to reach a detector at a known distance is measured. This time will depend on the mass-to-charge ratio of the particle (heavier particles reach lower speeds). From this time and the known experimental parameters one can find the mass-to-charge ratio of the ion
Applications:
High sensitivity MS and MS/MS measurements. Often coupled with liquid chromatography. Can be effectively linked with ion mobility separation (IMS) due to speed of analysis (micro seconds).
Sample Handling Requirements:
Nanograms, or less, of material
Complementary Techniques:
Warwick Capability:
Bruker Maxis, Waters Synapt G1, Waters Synapt G2.
Contact:
Claire Gerard: / 07385 145064