Analysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) using nanosecond laser desorption / femtosecond ionisation laser mass spectrometry (FLMS)

Robson, L. et al. (2001) Analysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) using nanosecond laser desorption / femtosecond ionisation laser mass spectrometry (FLMS). In: 10th International symposium - Resonance ionization spectroscopy and its applications, Knoxville, TN, October 2000, 291 -296. ISBN 0735400245 (doi: 10.1063/1.1405619)

Abstract

Nanosecond laser desorption / femtosecond ionisation laser mass spectrometry (LD/FLMS) allows ultra-sensitive detection and trace analysis of atoms and molecules. In this study, we have applied the LD/FLMS technique to the characterisation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Using high intensity femtosecond laser pulses (10/sup 13/ - 10/sup 15/ W/cm/sup 2/) at lambda ~ 395 nm and 790 nm coupled to a reflectron time of flight mass spectrometer a series of PAHs have been investigated. In particular, anthracene, tetracene and pentacene are discussed. The spectra presented show intact parent ion at both wavelengths, with little fragmentation at lower ionisation laser intensities. This initial data suggests that the optimum wavelength to operate FLMS for PAHs may be 395 nm and not 790 nm for maximum parent ion production. Comparative studies adopting nanosecond ionisation are also discussed.

• Item Type: Conference Proceedings
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Singhal, Dr Ravi and Ledingham, Professor Kenneth
• Authors: Robson, L., Tasker, A.D., Hankin, S.M., Ledingham, K.W.D., Singhal, R.P., Fang, X., McCanny, T., Kosmidis, C., Tzallas, P., Langley, A.J., Taday, P.F., and Divall, E.J.
• Subjects: Q Science > QC Physics
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Physics and Astronomy
• Journal Name: AIP Conference Proceedings
• ISSN: 0094-243X
• ISBN: 0735400245