Recent developments in mass spectrometry

Abstract

Rather than the more classical attributes of resolution and sensitivity, recent developments in mass spectrometry appear to have addressed problems associated with sample involatility, complexity and high molecular weight. The first was solved originally by conversion to derivatives, first methyl esters for example, and later others, trimethylsilyl ethers in particular. In my opinion this method, in the hands of a chemist knowledgeable enough to be aware of its attendant complications, is still the most powerful of all. It allows use of labelled reagents and separation from byproducts and impurities by GC and LC. Quite often the elucidation of molecular weight and other structural features is then straightforward.