Quantitative Variability in the 252Cf Plasma Desorption Mass Spectra of Triglycerides and Waxes

Article abstract of DOI:10.1002/oms.1210240820

A series of mixtures of solid triglycerides and waxes are examined using 252Cf plasma desorption mass spectrometry.The relative abundances of diagnostic ions are found to vary with sample preparation, handling, and composition.It is proposed that less efficiently packing, shorter chain, compounds are forced to the analysis site, i.e. the surface.This takes place at varying rates that reflect the bulk properties of the mixture as revealed by its phase diagram and thermal history.Mixtures that remain liquids during analysis show ion abundances correctly reflecting their composition.Mixtures of isotopomeric glycerides also show normal ion abundances.