Derivatization aids in the determination of end groups in poly(alkylene glycol)s by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry.

A method for end-group characterization by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry following preliminary derivatization with N,O-bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide (BSTFA) and capryloyl chloride is described and applied to poly(alkylene glycol)s. The MALDI mass spectra of the products revealed peaks of sodiated derivative cations, whose shift by the respective increments allowed the determination of the number of end functional groups with active hydrogens. This approach is particularly efficient for the distinction of cyclic and linear dehydration products among minor components. Copyright 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.