ABOUT LCMS

About LCMS

How Does LCMS Work?

With the resolving power of liquid chromatography combined with the detection specificity of mass spectrometry, LCMS is a powerful analytical technique. This technique separates a sample component that is then introduced into a mass spectrometer. This process allows for the analysis of samples that have historically been challenging to analyze.  

Ready to get started?

Contact us today at (617) 812-9013

What is Mass Spectrometer?

A mass spectrometer is a tool that allows molecules to be deflected through magnetic fields. The first step in the mass spectrometry sequence is ionization. During this process the atoms are ionized by removing at least one electron to generate a positive ion. Next, the ions are accelerated to generate the same kinetic energy. The third step is deflection. These ions are then deflected by a magnetic field. The lighter the ion the more deflection they will experience. Finally, this beam of ions can be detected electrically.  
CONTACT OVERBROOK

Differences between LCMS and LMCS-MS and HPLC

What’s the Difference Between LCMS and LCMS-MS?

LCMS uses an HPLC unit paired with a mass spectrometry detector.  LCMSMS, or tandem mass spectrometry has two mass spectrometry detectors.  LCMSMS allows for multiple ionization events to occur.  It is typically used when a single ionization event will not offer the desired sensitivity results.  

How does LCMS Differ from HPLC?

While LCMS can be utilized in a similar manner as HPLC because they each leverage liquid chromatography, HPLC uses UV and other detectors, where LCMS uses mass spectrometry detection.  HPLC applications require a complete separation as the molecules exit chromatographically, while LCMS can uniquely identify them if they exit together, or with less sophisticated chromatographic techniques.

Juggling is for Circuses.
Are you focusing on too many things & not on your science?

What is MS Detection?

Mass spectrometry detection is a method that uses the mass-to-charge ratio of a compound. After the chromatographic separation of the compound, the molecules are ionized and sent through a set of magnets to further separate these molecules based on their mass-to-charge ratio. As these charged particles strike a detector and create current, the molecules can be identified. Because different charges and masses can be detected, MS detection allows for more specificity.

What Applications Does LCMS Support?

From environmental analysis to pharmaceutical development, LCMS supports a wide range of applications. Molecular weight detection of proteins can be done quickly and accurately with LCMS. Combinatorial chemistry has changed the drug discovery process. With LCMS compounds no longer having to be created with manual manipulations. Entire classes of compounds can now be generated from sets of reagents. For pharmaceutical applications, the mass spectrum made available from LCMS can provide information through separating compounds that are chromatographically unresolved.
CONTACT OVERBROOK

Juggling is for Circuses.
Are you focusing on too many things & not on your science?

Every detail matters when locating a lab which is why the relocation process can feel overwhelming to a lab manager. It doesn't have to be this way. At Overbrook, we want to help you maximize cost efficiencies and minimize downtime with your next lab relocation. We've created a lab relocation checklist to help provide you with some clarity and peace of mind. 
Download Now

What is LCMS?


Liquid Chromatography, or Liquid Chromatography for Mass Spectrometry is the most common bioanalytical method used in laboratories today. This methodology, along with tandem mass spectrometry, LCMSMS offers a robust, versatile, and sensitive appropriate for small molecules.   

LCMS Questions

Laboratory Contract Maintenance
By Ted Palashis 25 Nov, 2019
Opting for contract maintenance for your laboratory's equipment is a big decision. As with any big decision, you should have a few questions. Here is what you need to ask before selecting a contract maintenance provider.
HPLC Qualification
By Ted Palashis 04 Oct, 2019
To ensure a product is safe and meets its intended use, method validation, and instrument qualifications are necessary Qualifications (IQ/OQ/PQ) provide a systematic approach to confirming that each instrument is proven to be accurate and precise. This process should be both scientifically strict, but also straightforward and repeatable.
Laboratory Equipment Maintenance vs. Lab Equipment Qualification
By Ted Palashis 19 Jun, 2019
Periodic maintenance is important for the functionality of your lab's equipment. So is qualification. But how are they different?
Share by: