Question

Analytical/Intrument/Chemistry discussion question.

What are some cons/disadvantage of using a liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS)? please explain some of them from your experience when using these instrumentation, will like some insight.   

Answer 1

Liquid Chromatography (LC) is a column chromatography with liquid as a mobile phase and separates complex samples according to their peak positions. It is a separation system. Mass Spectrometry (MS) provides relative molecular mass and relevant structural information by providing relationship between compound content and the peak. It is a detection system.

Advantages:

i) LC-MS separates each component and carry out multistage detection process to speculate the structure of them.

ii) It's operation is easy, resolution is fast & has high sensitivity.

iii) It is used to determine the molecular mass and structural information about the components.

iv) It can analyse many compounds of a sample simultaneously and provide accurate data in terms of qualitative and quantitative manner.

v) When several samples are analysed on daily basis , it can compensate the amount invested.

Disadvantages:

i) LC-MS is expensive and huge capital has to be invested.

ii) Its running cost is also high.

iii) Highly skilled personnel are required for operating the instrument.

iv) If multiple components have the same molecular mass, it is difficult to identify the component.

v) It is difficult to separate the structural isomers since their mass to charge ratio is similar.