Soluble nanographene as a novel cool matrix for small molecule analysis using MALDI-TOF MS

In this study, a nanographene material (HBCCs) was applied for the first time as a matrix for the analysis of low molecular weight compounds by MALDI-TOF-MS. Unlike the nanomaterials that easily aggregate and contaminate the ion source, the soluble nanographene could form an extremely uniform layer on the target plate and overcome the intrinsic defects of other matrix-based carbon materials. The matrix showed good performance in practical applications on a wide-range of low molecular weight analytes. This work gives new insight into the application of nanographene and provides a general approach for the rapid analysis of low molecular weight compounds.