Presentation Profile
Multidimensional Mass Spectrometry of Polymeric Materials
Currently Scheduled: 10/12/2022 - 8:25 AM - 8:45 AM
Room: Wisteria
Main Author
Chrys Wesdemiotis - The University of Akron
Abstract:
Progress in science and engineering relies increasingly on synthetic materials with well-defined structures, optimized to perform specific biomedical, technological, consumer, and environmental applications. Mass Spectrometry (MS) using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) and/or electrospray ionization (ESI) provides a powerful and versatile tool for the molecular characterization of such compounds as well as for imaging the molecular composition and defects of solid polymer surfaces. The dispersive nature, high mass resolution, and unparalleled sensitivity of MS permit the conclusive and confident elucidation of molecular weight (MW), functionality, and end group distributions and are particularly suitable for monitoring reactions that change the mass. This information required for both structural elucidation as well as the determination of polymerization mechanisms. Complex mixtures and multicomponent blends can be simplified with multidimensional approaches, involving in-line separation by polarity, using liquid chromatography (LC), and/or by ion size and shape, using ion mobility (IM) spectrometry. Meanwhile, large macromolecules and crosslinked networks can be made analyzable by mild thermal degradation that predictably breaks weak bonds while preserving connectivity and functionality. Conversely, mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) techniques with solvent-free MALDI can be utilized to determine the molecular composition and defects in the top molecular layer of synthetic polymer surfaces (
