My
project is the implementation of electrospray ionization in mass spectrometry
for the study of volatile compounds.
Mass spectrometry is extensively used to identify molecular compounds by
mass, both as a whole molecule and as fragments. However, due to the presence of fragments,
samples must be studied in isolation, achieved through gas chromatography. Electrospray ionization offers an alternative
to traditional ionization, which allows for analysis in the absence of chromatography. Volatile compounds are
best suited for this method due to their high vapor pressure. This allows the spectrometer to work as an
“electronic nose,” as volatile compounds are commonly associated with
smells. The hope is to use this
“electronic nose” in the detection and identification of volatile compounds,
often correlated with disease. Currently
my work focuses on the assembly of a vacuum system, needed to accommodate the
electrospray setup as the input of the mass spectrometer. To this end I am building several metal
cones, known as skimmers, which guide the sample and are essential to the
electrospray process. The skimmers are
made using electrodeposition, where thin layers of nickel are deposited on an
aluminum template. My weekly work
typically involves a mix of electroplating nickel, machining new aluminum
templates, and assembling the remainder of the vacuum system. My favorite part of this project so far has
been working with instrumentation and gaining a better understanding of methods
of chemical analysis. One unexpected
skill I have learned is how to use a lathe, which is necessary for shaping the
aluminum templates and removing the skimmers from the template. In general my interests in Chemistry involve
the analysis of molecular compounds, namely through spectrometry. I hope to build off this research experience
by pursuing a PhD in Chemistry after my graduation in the spring of 2018.
