Gold nanoparticles loaded on zeolite as inorganic matrix for laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry of small molecules

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were loaded on zeolite to produce an inorganic matrix for the laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry of low molecular weight compounds. Owing to the strong acidity of zeolite, amino acids were detected as H+- or Na+-adducted species regardless of their isoelectric points. AuNPs on zeolite could also be used as an efficient Au+ supplier. By utilizing Au+ generated by photoexcitation, the ionization of the amino acids mixture, urea, and acetylsalicylic acid by Au+ adduction was demonstrated.