Direct Probe Ionisation Mass Spectrometry for Rapid and Accurate Determination of Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance Concentrations.

Rationale: Analysis of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) is typically achieved using chromatographic techniques, such as high-performance liquid chromatography, combined with mass spectrometry. These techniques can be complex, expensive, time consuming and can lead to inaccurate quantification due to sample container sorption and contamination by polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) components.

Methods: Here, we demonstrate the novel application of a Direct Probe ionisation Mass Spectrometer (DPiMS) to quantify four aqueous anionic PFAS; perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) and 1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (6:2 fluorotelomer surfactant).

Atmospheric solids analysis probe mass spectrometry: An easy bolt-on for the synthetic undergraduate teaching laboratory.

Rationale: High costs and student numbers can often hinder implementation of mass spectrometry (MS) in the undergraduate teaching laboratory, often with technicians running samples on students' behalf, and the implementation of MS only in discrete or isolated experiments. This study explores the use of atmospheric solids analysis probe MS (ASAP-MS) as a relatively low-cost, benchtop instrument, and its potential for application as a 'bolt-on' to existing undergraduate organic chemistry experiments.

Methods: Thirteen products synthesised in undergraduate laboratory experiments were analysed by ASAP-MS, along with their starting materials.