Membrane Introduction Mass Spectrometry (MIMS): A Versatile Tool for Direct, Real‐Time Chemical Measurements

Membrane introduction (or inlet) mass spectrometry (MIMS) is a direct, on‐line analytical technique, requiring that the mass spectrometer resolve analytes in the mixture based upon their m/z, their ionization characteristics and/or by mass spectrometry techniques. The coupling of semi‐permeable membranes to mass spectrometers enables rapid, direct analysis with minimal sample handling as well as continuous monitoring applications. It can be employed to follow dynamic changes in trace analyte concentrations and is therefore well suited for applications such as environmental monitoring, process control and /or in‐situ/in‐vivo analysis. In this special feature article, Erik Krogh and Chris Gill present recent developments and applications of MIMS variants using examples from their research and collaborations with others and comment on the future for this emerging ‘old dog with new tricks’. Christopher Gill and Erik Krogh have been the main forces behind the establishment of the Applied Environmental Research Laboratory at Vancouver Island University (Nanaimo, BC, Canada).