Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization of neutral clusters composed of matrix and analyte molecules.

A new version of the matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization experiment is described. Composed clusters created by laser desorption of a mixture of analyte and matrix material were injected into a supersonic jet and then analyzed by multiphoton ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Selective two-photon ionization of matrix molecules of a cluster component caused their dissociation, followed by intercluster proton or cation transfer to an analyte that is transparent for the wavelength of ionizing radiation. The intercluster charge transfer reactions are the only pathway for analyte ion formation under these conditions, as can be concluded from analysis of the mass spectra of a variety of substances.