Proton transfer reaction mass spectrometry (PTR-MS)

Proton Transfer Reaction Mass Spectrometry (PTR-MS) is an analytical technique used to detect and measure airborne chemicals, especially volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It works by ionizing these molecules through a process where they receive a proton (a positive charge particle) from a specialized reagent ion. The resulting charged molecules are then separated based on their mass-to-charge ratio within a mass spectrometer. This allows scientists to quickly and accurately identify and quantify various gases in real time, making PTR-MS valuable for environmental monitoring, food safety, and medical research.