05/29/2025
By Kwok Fan Chow

The Kennedy College of Science, Department of Chemistry, invites you to attend a Ph.D. Research Proposal defense by Inoshi de Silva entitled “Affinity Paper Spray Mass Spectrometry.”

Degree: Doctoral
Location: Olney Hall, Room 518
Date: Monday, June 16, 2025
Time: 1 p.m.

Committee Chair:
Prof. Pengyuan Liu, Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Lowell

Committee Members:

  • Prof. Yuyu Sun, Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Lowell
  • Prof. Kwok-Fan Chow, Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Lowell
  • Prof. James Reuther, Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Lowell

Abstract:
Paper spray mass spectrometry (PS-MS) is an ambient ionization technique that employs a porous substrate, typically cellulose paper, to simultaneously hold and ionize samples. This method offers rapid analysis, minimal sample preparation, cost-effectiveness, and compatibility with portable mass spectrometers for real-time applications. However, its inability to integrate with chromatographic separation limits its utility for analyzing complex mixtures. To address this limitation, we propose affinity paper spray mass spectrometry, a novel approach that functionalizes the cellulose paper surface with selective binding chemistries. This modification enables targeted analyte capture, followed by washing to remove nonspecific contaminants and elution to ionize bound species for detection—mirroring the principles of affinity chromatography.

We demonstrate this concept through two designs: (1) cellulose paper modified with aldehyde groups to selectively bind primary amines via Schiff-base formation, enabling rapid analysis of primary amine containing molecules such as amino acids; and (2) paper functionalized with cationic and fluorophilic moieties to enhance per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) sorption, addressing challenges in detecting these persistent environmental contaminants. These modifications enable analyte preconcentration directly on the substrate, streamlining ionization and detection. By integrating selective enrichment with PS-MS workflows, this work advances analytical chemistry, offering a versatile platform for targeted analysis of complex samples with enhanced specificity.

All interested students and faculty members are invited to attend.