Laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry imaging for the study of metal surfaces

Studying the chemistry and morphology of metal surfaces of construction materials is important for quality control of products manufactured for the rocket and space industry, evaluation of their wear and tear and deciding whether to recycle or reuse them. Mass spectrometry imaging makes it possible to obtain information about the surface that is not available by other methods. Imaging of metal samples was carried out on a matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization with a time-of-flight mass spectrometry instrument. The samples were fixed in the recesses carved inside standard Bruker targets. Organic compounds on the metal surfaces of construction materials used in the rocket industry were studied by mass spectrometry imaging for the first time. The method allows control of the presence of components of various process fluids used in the manufacture and operation of rockets, including joint treatment with several substances. Mass spectrometry imaging showed the effectiveness of using washing agents to remove 1,1-dimethylhydrazine (rocket fuel component) and its transformation products from the surfaces. It is shown that mass spectrometry imaging is applicable to the study of organic substances on metal surfaces. Further development will allow greater control of the process of manufacturing and use of materials for the rocket industry.