New directions and applications of membrane introduction mass spectrometry (MIMS)

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Our research program is centred on the development and application of on-line analytical techniques for the direct and continuous monitoring of key determinants of environmental and human health. The goal of this research is to provide direct sampling platforms that can be directly coupled to sensitive and selective detection systems, such as mass spectrometry to provide real-time, high precision measurements. Our research program has two thematic areas broadly characterized as 1) new directions in membrane introduction mass spectrometry (MIMS) instrumentation and 2) new applications of real-time analytical data. Membrane introduction mass spectrometry uses a semi-permeable membrane to pre-concentrate analytes while rejecting the bulk of the sample matrix allowing direct, on-line analysis without sample preparation. The 'faster, better, cheaper' analytical methods enabled by this research can be directly applied to the study of environmental chemistry, human exposure and material properties. For example, the ability to monitor trace contaminants in real-time in environmental systems (e.g. indoor/outdoor air quality, drinking water disinfection by-products) is of paramount importance in understanding health risks and rapidly mitigating problems when they occur. Substantially faster chemical identification and quantification in complex samples also has direct application in emergency response scenarios, quality control and clinical diagnosis. Consequently, our research program has direct significance for environmental quality and human health.