Annual Scientific Report 2017

THE UNIT IN 2017

The High Resolution Mass Spectrometry Unit provides ICIQ researchers with access to state-of the-art mass spectrometry instruments capable of characterizing the wide range of compounds which are typically of interest in the institute. The instrumentation includes a variety of ionization options, sample introduction and chromatographic techniques required for mass spectrometry analysis of organic and organometallic compounds, including polymers, nanoparticles, non covalent interactions and mechanistic studies.

The MS Unit provides comprehensive training for ICIQ researchers to ensure optimal use of the facility and appropriate data interpretation, including periodic talks on MS fundamental aspects.

In 2017 there were 2452 samples submitted. Although this amount is similar to the number of submitted samples in 2016, we should highlight that the number of analysis per sample increased from 1.6 to 2.2 in 2017.

Most of the samples (79%) were analyzed using electrospray as ionization method. The use of MALDI ionization has decreased from 5 to 2 % in 2017, while APCI number of analysis were kept constant.

In 2017 the MS Unit acquired a Cryospray source (Bruker Daltonics) that was coupled to the MicroTOF mass spectrometer. This source, based on coldspray ionization can work at temperatures from -100ºC to 100ºC, allows the analysis of labile ionic compounds and expand the range of solvents that can be employed. From May to December, 45 samples (64 analyses) mostly related to mechanistic studies were analysed using this new ionization method in the MS Unit.