Optimising Mobile Phase Solvent Purity for LC/MS

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc has published a white paper entitled ‘Optimizing mobile phase solvent purity for LC/MS.’ Enhanced sensitivity and mass accuracy in liquid chromatography/mass spectroscopy (LC/MS) is essential when analytes are found in trace amounts. Purity is a crucial consideration when selecting appropriate solvents for use in such analyses, where background noise must be minimal. Optimising the quality of mobile phase solvents can contribute to improving the chromatographic or mass spectroscopic properties of the analyte, as well as the overall detection limits of the instrument system. The whitepaper highlights the low mass background, metal ion content, contamination and LC/UV response, using diode array detection, that is possible when using the Fisher Chemical Optima LC/MS solvent range instead of other solvent brands.

Examining LC/MS solvents offered by seven companies, including Thermo Fisher, the white paper presents comparative chromatographic data from four different advanced LC/MS instruments. Data collected includes mass baseline, signal intensity, contamination by PEG and plasticisers, and metal ion content, all of which impact on the ease of MS interpretation. This data suggests that the Optima LC/MS solvent range is best for mobile phase purity.

Optima LC/MS solvents are manufactured and packaged using proprietary techniques to ensure exceptionally low metal ion content and minimal MS background noise. They also offer lot-to-lot consistency and extended column life due to low residue levels, setting the standard of excellence for consistent, reproducible performance in the mobile phase of advanced LC/MS systems.