Abandoning the Quadrupole for Mass Spectrometry Fragmentation Analysis

Analytical performance for the analysis of complex mixtures is ultimately a measure of how well an instrument can provide specificity without sacrificing sensitivity. The analysis provided in this whitepaper highlights key limitations in the traditional quad-based approach of using inherently low-resolution filtering devices to achieve specificity. By leveraging a high-speed separations technology in the form of high-resolution ion mobility, a more efficient and performant analyzer can be realized. Based on initial proof of concept data demonstrating the fundamental concepts of how PAMAF can be used to maximize ion utilization efficiency and speed of ion, we believe that it is possible to deliver a system that can generate over 1,000 fragmentation spectra per second while achieving near-lossless transmission and isolation of all precursor species. The steady progression of instrumentation development over the years has brought us to the point where we are within reach of maximum efficiency of operation. Building on past achievements limited by the technology of that time, we envision a future where ion mobility enhances fragmentation analysis—a development 25 years in the making. We anticipate that the resulting capabilities, unique to SLIM-based ion mobility, will enable untold scientific discoveries.