Our research
The research of the working group is in the field of modern analytical chemistry with a particular focus on the development of novel and improved methods for bio-, nano-, ultra-trace and surface analysis. Modern mass spectrometers with and without separation methods are used for this purpose.
Techniques used
We use techniques such as inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), single particle ICP-MS, inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), separation methods (HPLC, GC, CE), mass spectrometry with electrospray ionization (ESI-MS), time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF-SIMS) and direct desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (ADI-MS).
Examples of our research include a) the application of novel ionization sources coupled to high-resolution molecular mass spectrometry for direct and rapid desorption/ionization of biomolecules, b) the development of methods for the characterization and separation of nanomaterials with single particle ICP-MS coupled to CE, and c) the application of spICP-MS for high-sensitivity nanoparticle detection in environmental samples (seawater; sewage treatment plant samples; daphnia and fish samples) to investigate the fate and effects of nanomaterials in the environment.
Future projects aim to strengthen the research areas of ultra-trace analysis and to advance the development of novel instrumental analysis methods.
Techniques
- ICP-MS
- Single particle ICP-MS
- ICP-OES
- HPLC, GC, CE
- ESI-MS
- TOF-SIMS
- ADI-MS
