An ultrasensitive SPI/PAI ion source based on a high-flux VUV lamp and its applications for the online mass spectrometric detection of sub-pptv sulfur ethers.

Single-photon ionization mass spectrometry (SPI-MS) is an attractive analytical technique for the online detection of volatile organic compounds; however, the low photon flux of the vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) lamp commonly used in the SPI ion source and the corresponding low detection sensitivity remain a constraint to its wide field applications. In this study, a new VUV lamp-based SPI ion source was developed. By increasing the discharging volume and optimizing the configuration of the lens and ionizer, the photon flux of the VUV lamp and the sensitivity of the ion source were significantly improved.

Exploring breath biomarkers in BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis mice with associative ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry.

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a common but fatal disease that threatens human health worldwide. Developing effective diagnostic methods is of great importance for the early detection of PF in patients. In this study, bleomycin (BLM) was used in mice to mimic idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).

Ultrasensitive detection of trace chemical warfare agent-related compounds by thermal desorption associative ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry.

A thermal desorption associative ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometer was developed for ultrasensitive detection of semi-volatile chemical warfare agents (CWAs). The excited-state CHCl-induced associative ionization method presented a soft ionization characterization and an excellent sensitivity towards CWAs. The detection sensitivities of the investigated nine CWA-related substances were 2.