Advanced Materials Characterization Chapter 9 Mass Spectrometry

Advanced Materials Characterization Chapter 9 - by Igor Bello

Mass Spectrometry (MS) is a technique used in chemical analysis of materials. The analysis is based on resolving masses of ionized atoms, molecules, and fragmented molecules. The instruments performing mass analysis are called mass spectrometers.

Mass spectrometry can be used in various studies, from the investigation of the gas phase to the work of art. It can be used to measure the ages of rocks or skeletons, measure the masses of proteins, quantify trace elements in plasma and semiconductors, probe new materials, etc. Mass spectrometry is only one of a few techniques that can analyze all the elements of the periodic table including hydrogen and helium. Universality of mass spectrometry is also in ability to analyze all the forms of matter including gases, liquid, solids, and plasma, electrical conductors, semiconductors, or insulators. Mass spectrometry can also be used in the study of molecular structures. These diverse applications require different types of ionization methods and various mass spectrometers. The diversity of mass spectrometry is demonstrated by examples of its applications where different ionization methods and spectrometers are used.