ISSN:
0951-4198
Keywords:
Chemistry
;
Analytical Chemistry and Spectroscopy
Source:
Wiley InterScience Backfile Collection 1832-2000
Topics:
Physics
Notes:
Two kerogen samples from shales of different geological age, selected from each of Types I, II and III, have been characterized by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectroscopy (MALDI-MS). A Kratos Kompact MALDI III time-of-flight mass spectrometer equipped with a nitrogen laser operated at 337 nm was used on samples mounted in a matrix of sinapinic acid. The spectrometer was used in linear mode with a mass range up to 270 000 u and an ion extraction voltage of 20 kV. Individual spectra from 50 laser shots at low laser fluence were summed for each spectrum. The present study is a first attempt at characterizing kerogens by MALDI-MS. At low mass (200-500 u) families of peaks consisting of overlapping homologous series of apparently polar compounds have been observed: these peaks appear to be distinct from those due to the matrix material. In higher mass regions of the spectra, continua of masses extending from 1000 u up to around 10 000 u were observed; ions at higher masses were separated to baseline up to masses of 50 000 u. Evidence was found for a relationship between the minimum laser power sufficient for activating the MALDI-ionization process and the geological age of the kerogens; the laser power decreased as the geological age increased. In the case of one kerogen, a high laser fluence was used to generate molecular ions up to the detection limit of the mass spectrometer, in excess of 260 000 u. This paper presents results from a preliminary study of kerogens which requires an in-depth examination of the desorption process in complex mixtures.
Additional Material:
5 Ill.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/rcm.1290081006
