PNNL

Abstract

A novel nanospray desorption electrospray ionization (nano-DESI) approach is presented and its analytical applications are demonstrated for trace analysis of complex organic analytes deposited on substrates. In this approach the analyte is probed by a micro-droplet of charged solvent formed at the junction between two capillaries. One primary capillary is used to create and maintain a charged micro-droplet of solvent on the substrate while a second capillary is used to create a self-aspirating nanospray that delivers solvent dissolved analyte to the inlet of a mass spectrometer. This approach enables efficient separation of desorption and ionization events, thus providing better control over transport and ionization of the analyte. In this letter we present the basics of the nano-DESI approach and demonstrate its analytical capabilities. Specifically, we demonstrate significant improvement of the limits of detection and the stability of the signal as compared to the traditional DESI and discuss imaging applications.