Stephanie J. Wetzel, Charles M. Guttman, Kathleen M. Flynn
Polymers Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD
James J. Filliben
Statistical Engineering Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD
Abstract
One of the most significant issues in any analytical technique is optimization.
Optimization and calibration are key factors in quantitation. In matrix-assisted
laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS),
one of the limitations restricting quantitation is instrument optimization.
Understanding which parameters are most influential and the effects of
these parameters on the mass spectrum is required for optimization. This
understanding is especially important when characterizing synthetic polymers
by MALDI-TOF-MS, due to the complex nature of synthetic polymers. Several
instrument parameters were studied using an orthogonal experimental design
to understand effects on the signal-to-noise of a polystyrene distribution.
The parameters examined included; laser energy, detector voltage, is/2
voltage, lens voltage and delay time. Other factors considered were polymer
concentration and matrix. Detector voltage and delay time were the most
influential of the instrument parameters for polystyrene.
Author Information:
Stephanie Wetzel
Polymers Division
MSEL
Bldg. 224, Rm. B328
Mail Stop 8541
301-975-6783
301-975-3928
stephanie.wetzel@nist.gov
yes
Poster Topic: Chemistry