Matrix effects on selectivities of poly(ethylene glycol)s for alkali metal ion complexation in matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization.

The effect of the matrix on poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) cationization was investigated using an equimolar mixture of CsCl and LiCl as cationizing agents. It was observed that for both carboxylic acid and non-carboxylic acid matrices used, PEG cationization by a given alkali metal ion depends on the matrix used. For example, cesiated PEG ion intensities were much stronger than those of the corresponding lithiated PEG ions when equimolar concentrations of Cs(+) and Li(+) were present and IAA (indolacrylic acid) was the matrix. However, an opposite result was obtained when the same experimental conditions were utilized, but with HABA (2-(4-hydroxyphenylazo)benzoic acid) in place of IAA as the matrix.