This presentation will describe a new mass spectrometry technique known as distance-of-flight mass spectrometry (DOFMS).  The concept behind DOFMS is best explained in contrast with the traditional time-of-flight mass spectrometer (TOFMS).  Time-of-flight mass analyzers measure the m/z of an ion by imparting the same energy to all ions and then measuring the time required for each m/z to traverse a known distance and arrive at a single detector.  In contrast, the DOFMS measures the m/z of an ion by measuring the distance each ion travels during a set time period.  More specifically, ions accelerated to a constant momentum separate in space according to their various m/z-dependent velocities, with ions of lower m/z traveling longer distances as compared to ions of greater m/z.  At a specific instant after acceleration, all m/z will achieve a sharp spatial focus and can then be directed onto the surface of a position-sensitive ion detector where their m/z is determined based upon location.  DOFMS represents a new approach for spatially-dispersive mass spectrometry. The DOFMS strategy presents a number of significant benefits.  Like TOFMS, the DOFMS is architecturally simple, rapid, and has an unlimited m/z range.  However, DOFMS are able to employ new solid-state array ion detectors to great advantage, providing greater detection efficiency and dynamic range than typical TOFMS, and obviating the need for fast electronics and timing circuits.  As important, the DOFMS strategy permits new experiments to be accomplished not possible with typical TOFMS.  The theory of operation and experimental advantages of DOFMS will be discussed, and the analytical performance of this new type of mass spectrometer will be described.

Distance of flight mass spectrometry: A new approach to spatially-dispersive mass spectrometry

246th National Meeting (2013)

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