Laser Physical Methods: Laser Microprobe Mass Spectrometry

Abstract

Soon after the advent of the laser, several mass spectroscopists realized the potentials of a laser mass spectrometer combination. Laser-induced mass spectrometry was attempted as early as 1966, but without very promising results. Since the Laser Microprobe Mass Analyzer (LAMMAR) became commercially available in 1978, its application has been increasing rapidly in different fields, due to various particular advantages. It soon became obvious that this method allows the identification of complex molecules through finger-prints of the fragment ions. Especially in organic mass spectrometry and in particle analysis, laser desorption mass spectrometry (LDMS) is becoming a unique technique for analyzing nonvolatile and/or thermally labile organic compounds on a micron-size level. The application of lasers in mass spectrometry (MS) implied a breakthrough in the further development of microanalysis. Laser radiation can be concentrated to a very high power density during extremely short periods of time. The use of the laser offered, therefore, the means to vaporize, excite or ionize a very small volume of solid material, which opened new perspectives for localization in the microscopical level. The aim of this article is to give a description of the commercial instruments for laser mass spectrometry (LMS), to explain how analysis is carried out, to point out the advantages and disadvantages of this technique and to show, on the basis of different applications, in which fields the instrument can be applied. A review of the areas of application will be presented with special emphasis on applications in the life sciences.