Special Issues
New developments in matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) technology enable decoupling of the ionization source from the time-of-flight mass analyzer for operation at atmospheric pressure (AP-MALDI). This technique also can be integrated with other types of mass analyzers, such as the ion trap.
High-Speed Laser MS for Precise, Prep-Free Environmental Particle Tracking
April 21st 2025Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have demonstrated that a fast, laser-based mass spectrometry method—LA-ICP-TOF-MS—can accurately detect and identify airborne environmental particles, including toxic metal particles like ruthenium, without the need for complex sample preparation. The work offers a breakthrough in rapid, high-resolution analysis of environmental pollutants.