Applied Interpretation of LC-MS Mass Spectra

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Course summary

Course approval

Royal Society of Chemistry approved training logo

This course has been approved by the Royal Society of Chemistry for purposes of Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

What will you learn on this course?

This course is an introduction to mass spectral interpretation presenting the fundamental tools and rules when interpreting full-scan LC-MS data. The delegates will benefit from a greater understanding of how to interpret the mass spectra produced by Electrospray Ionisation (ESI) and Atmospheric Pressure Chemical Ionisation (APCI).

From learning to quickly recognise from the spectrum if the analyte is aliphatic or aromatic in nature; to learning to interpret the number of carbon atoms, heteroatoms and degree of unsaturation; and understand isotopes, isomers, logical losses, cleavages and rearrangements to produce a mass spectral fingerprint of the compound.

The course uses a combination of classroom-based presentations to introduce the theory with a high proportion of tutor-supported tutorial exercises on LC-MS spectral data to facilitate and reinforce the learning process.

If you wish to learn the fundamentals of LC-MS mass spectral interpretation for the identification of unknowns or to enhance your understanding of fragmentation patterns, to assist in accurate identification when using library search programs, then this course is for you.

Who is this course for?

This course is recommended for those who have a good background in organic chemistry and at least six months experience as a LC-MS operator, and is interested in structural elucidation of compounds amenable to analysis by LC-MS.

Learning outcomes

  • You will learn the fundamentals of Electrospray Ionisation (ESI) and Atmospheric Pressure Chemical Ionisation (APCI) mass spectral interpretation for LC-MS
  • You will learn how to obtain high quality mass spectra and its importance
  • You will learn how electron ionisation occurs and review isotopes and isomers
  • You will learn simple techniques to recognise and elucidate spectra
  • You will learn how to observe fragmentation patterns for low molecular and high molecular weight molecules
  • You will learn about the formation of common adduct ions under different solvent and buffer conditions
  • You will learn how to use advanced tools to interpret spectra such as molecular ion, nitrogen rules, degree of unsaturation and losses
  • You will learn the importance of alpha and inductive cleavages and rearrangements

How to book this course

Feedback from previous attendees of Virtual Classroom course

"Really excellent training. There are no courses available that typically target structural elucidation in LCMS in specific so this was exactly what our team needed."  Bespoke training, October 2020.