Application of Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry in Characterization of Polymers

Basic principles, matrices selection and sample preparation for matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry were summarized for the analysis of polymers. The cationization agents effect and mass discrimination were also analyzed briefly. Besides, the application of MALDI technique on the determination of molecular weight distribution, end group information, copolymer composition and mechanism of polymerization and degradation were reviewed.