These instruments offer selectivity and sensitivity to LC/MS/MS analysis. After separation of sample components by HPLC, the analytes are desolvated and ionized by an ESI source. Triple quadrupole mass spectrometers consist of two mass filtering quadrupoles centered by a quadrupole that acts as a collision cell. As collisions occur with an inert gas, typically nitrogen or argon, the molecular ions become fragmented, which provides structural information. Fragments are characteristic to each analyte and provide enhanced specificity when identifying analytes.

Our group has used these instruments for many projects including:

• The analysis of pharmaceuticals and personal care products in waste water, human urine, and vegetables
• The analysis of sulfonamides and tetracyclines in cow manure
• The analysis of estrogens in chicken litter