Reliable, sensitive, and selective analysis of chemically diverse volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and inorganic gases cannot be achieved using traditional chromatographic techniques unless multiple analyses are invoked. A more recent analytical technique – Selected Ion Flow Tube Mass Spectrometry (SIFT-MS) – overcomes this limitation by eliminating chromatography and using highly controlled chemical ionization to achieve broad-spectrum, direct analysis of air and headspace.<br/>In this paper, the SIFT-MS technique will be introduced.  Selectivity in SIFT-MS is achieved very elegantly by coupling mass spectrometry with ultra-soft chemical ionization: eight reagent ions are available and automatically switched by software control of a quadrupole mass spectrometer. The very diverse reaction mechanisms provided by the reagent ions provides detection of a very wide range of compounds, including chromatically challenging ones such as ammonia, formaldehyde, and hydrogen sulfide. Rapid, direct analysis naturally lends itself to application both on the process-line and in the laboratory.<br/>The paper will illustrate the unique capabilities of SIFT-MS analysis by focusing on formaldehyde – a chromatographically challenging compound. Various analysis scenarios will be illustrated, including analysis of formaldehyde emissions in candle flames, polymer headspace, and direct air analysis from sample bags.

High-throughput gas and headspace analysis for the process-line and laboratory: SIFT-MS

253rd National Meeting (2017)

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