High-Resolution AP/MALDI Ion Source

Advanced atmospheric pressure MALDI imaging for modern mass spectrometry platforms

AP/MALDI Source

High-Resolution Atmospheric MALDI Imaging Source

The AP/MALDI source is MassTech’s atmospheric pressure MALDI ionization platform designed for high-spatial resolution molecular imaging without the need for vacuum operation. It integrates directly with all commercial mass spectrometers and is available in HR and UHR configurations to support different spatial imaging requirements.

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A close-up view of the MassTech MT Explorer 30 (MTE30) portable 3D ion trap mass spectrometer, showing the control panel with various ports and indicators.

Available Configurations

The AP/MALDI platform is available in two configurations designed for different spatial imaging requirements.

AP/MALDI HR

High-Resolution configuration optimized for routine spatial molecular imaging.

Resolution: ~40 µm
Best for: routine spatial molecular imaging workflows

  • Optimized for routine MALDI imaging
  • Compatible with commercial mass spectrometers
  • Ideal for standard spatial molecular imaging workflows
  • Cost-efficient configuration

AP/MALDI UHR

Ultra-High-Resolution configuration designed for detailed spatial molecular imaging.

Resolution: sub-10 µm
Best for: high-resolution molecular imaging and advanced research

  • Enhanced optical system for finer spatial detail
  • Enables high-detail molecular imaging
  • Compatible with all commercial mass spectrometers
  • Designed for advanced research applications
  • Stable and reproducible ionization performance

Key Advantages

  • High spatial resolution imaging – Engineered for stable, reproducible ionization and fine molecular detail without requiring vacuum-based sample introduction.
  • Direct integration with mass spectrometers – Compatible with leading MS platforms for streamlined workflow deployment.
  • Reliable performance – Signature AP/MALDI source that has been refined over years of development and use.
  • Flexible research support – Supports routine laboratory imaging, method development, and applied research workflows. 

Source Design and Compatibility

The AP/MALDI (ng) employs an atmospheric pressure interface that simplifies ion introduction and expands source compatibility across mass analyzers. Unlike traditional vacuum/MALDI sources, this system enables rapid sample throughput and reduces workflow complexity.

Its modular design supports a variety of analytical configurations, making it suitable for labs with diverse imaging and profiling needs.

Typical Applications

  • Spatial molecular imaging for biological and material samples
  • Life science and pharmaceutical research
  • High-throughput profiling and comparative studies
  • Applied imaging workflows in academic and industrial labs

Specifications

Key performance and system details at a glance.

  • Ionization type: Atmospheric pressure (AP) MALDI
  • Laser wavelength: 355 nm (Nd:YAG DPSS)
  • Laser repetition rate: 1–10 kHz
  • Minimum laser spot size:
    – AP/MALDI(ng) HR: 25–30 μm
    – AP/MALDI(ng) UHR: 5 μm
  • Maximum laser spot size: 50–100 μm (matrix dependent)
  • Limit of detection: 1 femtomole/sample (Bradykinin)
  • Mass range: determined by mass spectrometer
  • Sample plate formats:
    – MassTech Opti-TOF (192 spots)
    – 25 mm microscope & ITO slides
Full specifications
  • Ionization type: Atmospheric pressure (AP) matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI)
  • Laser wavelength: 355 nm (Nd:YAG DPSS laser)
  • Laser repetition rate: 1–10 kHz
  • Minimum laser spot size:
    – AP/MALDI(ng) HR: 25–30 μm
    – AP/MALDI(ng) UHR: 5 μm
  • Maximum laser spot size: 50–100 μm (depending on matrix)
  • Limit of detection: 1 femtomole/sample (Bradykinin)
  • Mass range: limited/determined by mass spectrometer
  • Sample plate formats:
    – MassTech Opti-TOF (192 spots)
    – 25-mm microscope slides
    – ITO slides
  • X stage travel distance: up to 55 mm
  • Y stage travel distance: up to 40 mm
  • X-Y stage accuracy: 10 μm (5 μm with Option AP-D)
  • Modes of operation:
    – Manual
    – Automated (multiple spots)
    – Pattern mode (MS imaging)
  • Sample monitoring: integrated CCD camera
  • Synchronization with MS: LC protocol (contact closure)
  • Source interchangeability: interchangeable with ESI, APCI, and other AP sources within minutes
  • Compatible MS manufacturers:
    – Agilent Technologies
    – Bruker Daltonics
    – SCIEX
    – Thermo Fisher Scientific
    – Waters
  • Control software platform: Windows
  • Control interface: Ethernet (RJ-45) or USB
  • Dimensions: 33 cm (L) × 17 cm (H) × 18 cm (W)
  • Weight: 6 kg
  • Power requirements: 95–240 VAC, 80 W

Full specification sheet (PDF)

Application Notes

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