Laser desorption mass spectrometry and MS/MS with a three-dimensional quadrupole ion trap

Abstract

An ion trap mass spectrometer (ITMS) has been modified to enable laser desorption mass spectrometry to be performed. The effects of the ion trap r.f. amplitude and helium bath gas pressure during desorption, along with the time delay between the laser pulse and the acquisition of the mass spectrum have been investigated. The ability to perform multiple stages of mass spectrometry (MS/MS) on laser-desorbed ions is also demonstrated.