Studying Photochemical Transformations using Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (ESI-MS)

This concept article reviews application-oriented possibilities in the mechanistic investigation of photochemical reactions by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (Photo-Chem-ESI-MS). A brief review of essential techniques for coupling photochemical reactions with ESI-MS online monitoring is presented. Representative customized advanced tools for light on/light off mechanistic studies of photochemical reactions aimed at the detection of specific intermediates are discussed. The design of dedicated Photo-Chem-ESI-MS setups is the focus of modern research and will enable more profound insight into the field.

Automated summary

This concept article discusses the application possibilities of electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (Photo-Chem-ESI-MS) in mechanistic investigation of photochemical reactions. It provides a brief review of key techniques for coupling photochemical reactions with ESI-MS online monitoring, and discusses representative customized advanced tools aimed at detecting specific intermediates in light on/light off mechanistic studies of photochemical reactions. The design of dedicated Photo-Chem-ESI-MS setups is highlighted as a focus of modern research, enabling more profound insight into the field.