The application of matrix-assisted laser desorption/lonisation time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) to the analysis of lubricants. part 1. polyol ester aviation turbine engine oils

In the present work, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/lonisation Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOFMS) is demonstrated to be a valuable method for the analysis of synthetic polyol ester turbine engine oils. A softionisation technique, it generates, under adequate experimental conditions only, (quasi-)molecular ions and allows detection and identification of all components including di- and tripentaerythritol esters and oligomeric additives, without pre-separation.