MALDI

Matrix assisted laser desorption ionization is a soft ionization technique which enables the detection of high molecular weight molecules like oligo-saccharides, proteins, peptides and polymers. In contrast to ESI ionization, MALDI produces far less multiply charged ions. Typically the dried-droplet method is used to co-crystalize the matrix with the sample. Common matrix compounds are 2,5-dihydroxy benzoic acid (DHB), sinapinic acid (SA), α-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid (HCCA).