Premium
Anion Identification via Complexation with meso ‐octamethylcalix(4)pyrrole and Detection Using Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry *
Author(s) -
RodriguezCruz Sandra E.,
Carson Kathryn A.
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
journal of forensic sciences
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.715
H-Index - 96
eISSN - 1556-4029
pISSN - 0022-1198
DOI - 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2009.01267.x
Subject(s) - chemistry , mass spectrometry , electrospray ionization , bromide , iodide , chloride , chemical ionization , counterion , steric effects , inorganic chemistry , ion , chromatography , organic chemistry , ionization
The routine identification of controlled substances and adulterants during forensic chemistry analysis often involves the identification of counter ions or salt forms present in an exhibit. Here, the use of the compound meso ‐octamethylcalix(4)pyrrole (C4P) during salt‐form identification analysis is presented. C4P is a commercially‐available, anion‐binding agent that can be reacted with a controlled substance or adulterant, resulting in the sequestration of anionic species, usually present as counter ions to the active ingredient. Formation of noncovalent complexes between the cyclic host C4P compound and anionic guests is investigated using electrospray ionization–mass spectrometry (ESI–MS). Complexes with chloride, bromide, iodide, nitrate, and acetate are readily observed and mass spectrometry analysis provides identification via molecular weight characterization. Chloride and bromide complexes are also characterized by the isotopic distribution of their molecular ions. Formation of host–guest complexes is not observed for sulfate and phosphate salts, presumably due to steric hindrance and energetically unfavorable conditions.