Application of Orbitrap LC-MS-MS for the Detection and Identification of Acids in Environmental Matrices

Lilach Yishai Aviram, Analytical Chemistry, IIBR, Ness Ziona, Israel (lilachy@iibr.gov.il)
Eyal Drug, Analytical Chemistry, Iibr, Ness Ziona, Israel
Shai Dagan, Analytical Chemistry, Iibr, Ness Ziona, Israel
Avi Weissberg, Analytical Chemistry, Iibr, Ness Ziona, Israel

We present a method for the determination of acids traces in several matrices using Orbitrap LC-MS analysis. Since Orbitrap is usually used for the detection of non- targeted compounds, we compared our Orbitrap results with former results obtained by the more traditional instrumentation for target compound analysis - triple quadrupole MRM. Sensitivity was approximately only 5 fold inferior to triple quadrupole. LOD was 0.2 ng/ml on concrete and up to 2 ng/ml in soil. The linear dynamic range was found to be 3 to 4 orders of magnitude. A new MS/MS-MS library was constructed using "Trace Finder" for these acids which was subsequently tested for its capabilities for automatic digging. The obtained sensitivity and linearity, together with the added value of exact mass identification are demonstrated to be an efficient tool for targeted compound analysis as well as for semi -targeted compounds screening.