Application of mass spectrometry with laser desorption/ionization for studies of lead clusters on surfaces of different types

Abstract

Ionization of model compounds is studied using the example of lead halides with the method of mass spectrometry with surface-activated laser desorption/ionization (SALDI) on surfaces of different types. Clusters of lead halides are determined in a wide range of masses, up to 2 kDa. The dependence of ionization on the concentration, support type, and method of application of model samples is shown. The surface of a fragment of the combustion chamber of a liquid rocket engine is studied using the method of SALDI mass spectrometry. Lead and oxides and chlorides thereof are detected on the surface of a combustion-chamber fragment. It is suggested that peeling of a nickel coating may be caused by the presence of lead clusters at the nickel-bronze interface.