An ion cyclotron resonance spectrometer as a gas chromatographic detector. The effect of continuous trapping on performance

Potential analytical applications of interfacing a GC to an FT-ICR MS: fingerprinting complex sample matrixes

Details of interfacing a high-pressure gas chromatograph to the internal ion source of a Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer (FT-ICR MS) are described. We present our preliminary results and potential analytical applications of GC/FT-ICR for analyzing complex biological and environmental sample matrixes, such as petroleum mixtures. Based on GC/FT-ICR data, rapid characterization of various automobile gasoline samples is possible. Comparison between acquired data from the GC/FT-ICR MS (in broadband mode) and a commercial GC quadrupole mass spectrometer (QMS) (over a wide mass range) indicates that sensitivity of the GC/FT-ICR MS is an order of magnitude lower. High mass resolution and mass measurement accuracy of FT-ICR MS can be utilized for unambiguous molecular formula identification of unknown analytes.

Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry: a primer

This review offers an introduction to the principles and generic applications of FT-ICR mass spectrometry, directed to readers with no prior experience with the technique. We are able to explain the fundamental FT-ICR phenomena from a simplified theoretical treatment of ion behavior in idealized magnetic and electric fields. The effects of trapping voltage, trap size and shape, and other nonidealities are manifested mainly as perturbations that preserve the idealized ion behavior modified by appropriate numerical correction factors. Topics include: effect of ion mass, charge, magnetic field, and trapping voltage on ion cyclotron frequency; excitation and detection of ICR signals; mass calibration; mass resolving power and mass accuracy; upper mass limit(s); dynamic range; detection limit, strategies for mass and energy selection for MSn; ion axialization, cooling, and remeasurement; and means for guiding externally formed ions into the ion trap. The relation of FT-ICR MS to other types of Fourier transform spectroscopy and to the Paul (quadrupole) ion trap is described. The article concludes with selected applications, an appendix listing accurate fundamental constants needed for ultrahigh-precision analysis, and an annotated list of selected reviews and primary source publications that describe in further detail various FT-ICR MS techniques and applications.