Chromatographic effluent detection with laser ionization mass spectrometry

Open tubular column gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) has become one of the most versatile and powerful tools for the chemical analysis of volatile samples. The inherently high selectivity and sensitivity of the technique stems from its unique capability to separate and subsequently inden¬tify individual components of even very complex samples. Numerous instruments have been developed successfully to couple mass spectrometry with gas chromatography. Different types of mass spectrometers, ionization sources, interfaces, and gas chromatographs can comprise a GC/MS system.

by Richard B. Opsal and James P. Reilly