Review: Current applications and challenges for liquid chromatography coupled to isotope ratio mass spectrometry (LC/IRMS)

Abstract

High-precision isotope analysis is recognized as an essential research tool in many fields of study. Until recently, continuous flow isotope ratio mass spectrometry (CF-IRMS) was available via an elemental analyzer or a gas chromatography inlet system for compound-specific analysis of light stable isotopes. In 2004, however, an interface that coupled liquid chromatography with IRMS (LC/IRMS) became commercially available for the first time. This brought the capability for new areas of application, in particular enabling compound-specific δ(13)C analysis of non-volatile, aqueous soluble, compounds from complex mixtures. The interface design brought with it several analytical constraints, however, in particular a lack of compatibility with certain types of chromatography as well as limited flow rates and mobile phase compositions. Routine LC/IRMS methods have, however, been established for measuring the δ(13)C isotopic ratios of underivatized individual compounds for application in archeology, nutrition and physiology, geochemistry, hydrology, soil science and food authenticity. Seven years after its introduction, we review the technical advances and constraints, methodological developments and new applications of liquid chromatography coupled to isotope ratio mass spectrometry.

Current challenges in compound-specific stable isotope analysis of environmental organic contaminants

“…Thus, stationary phases must be compatible with pure aqueous mobile phases and loss of carbon because of phase bleeding should be minimized. Common columns for ion chromatography fulfil these requirements [127,128] whereas the development of suitable reversed-phase columns remains a challenge. In addition, increasing the temperature of the mobile and stationary phase may modulate the solubility and, therefore, the retention of compounds.…”

Methods and future directions for paleoclimatology in the Maya Lowlands

“…It is then possible to couple a gas chromatograph, or sometimes a high-performance liquid chromatograph, to an isotope ratio mass spectrometer, enabling isotopic analysis of individual organic biomarkers (Godin and McCullagh, 2011;Hayes et al, 1990).…”

Applications and impacts of stable isotope probing for analysis of microbial interactions

“…However, applications are still limited due to lack of compatibility with certain types of chromatography as well as limited flow rates and mobile phase compositions excluding, e.g. organic solvents and buffers (Godin, McCullagh 2011). …”