Comparison of MALDI-TOF mass spectra of [PdCl(dien)]Cl and [Ru(en)2Cl2]Cl acquired with different matrices

Abstract

In this work, the matrix-assisted laser desorption and ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectra of two cationic complexes, i.e., [PdCl(dien)]Cl and [Ru(en)2Cl2]Cl, acquired under different conditions were analyzed. The spectra were recorded with three matrices with or without trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), i.e., two traditional matrices, i.e., 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid and ?-cyano-hydroxycinnamic acid, and one flavonoid, quercetin. The spectra acquired with quercetin appeared to be the simplest, whereas in the spectra obtained with other matrices, peaks arising either from the addition of matrix molecules or from the fragmentation products were detectable. Addition of TFA did not complicate the spectra of the Pd(II) and Ru(III) complexes when the traditional matrices were used. On the other hand, the spectra of Pd complex were simpler, whereas the addition of TFA in the case of the Ru complex resulted in a higher number of peaks, some of which could not be identified. Taken together, the results of this study once more emphasize the differences arising in the MALDI-TOF mass spectra of transition metal complexes in dependence on the applied matrix.