Toward digital ionization: Wide-energy programmable microwave plasma for high coverage mass spectrometry analysis of trace biosamples

Abstract

Although numerous ambient mass spectroscopy (AMS) technologies have been developed over the past 20 years to address diverse analytical circumstances, a single ion source technique that can handle all analyte types is still lacking. In this study, a novel wide-energy programmable microwave plasma ionization mass spectrometry system (WPMPI-MS) is presented, through which MS analysis can achieve high coverage of substances with various characteristics by digitally regulating the microwave energy. In addition, ionizing energy can be rapidly scanned using programmable waveforms, enabling the simultaneous detection of biomolecules, heavy metals, molecular structure, etc., in seconds. WPMPI-MS performed well in the analysis of real samples, rapidly analyzed 9 toxicological standards in one drop of serum, and demonstrated good quantification and LC coupling capability. The prospective uses of the technology in biological and chemical analysis are extensive, and it is anticipated to emerge as a viable alternative to commercially available ion sources.