Energy-dependent electrospray ionization mass spectrometric studies of mononuclear metal carbonyls

Energy-dependent electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (EDESI-MS) technique has been used for investigating the fragmentation of monomeric metal carbonyl complexes of general formula [M(CO)x(COOMe)]− (M = Cr, Fe, Mo, and W). The results show that in addition to the loss of CO, formaldehyde loss provides a pathway of fragmentation. Of all complexes investigated, the chromium complex exhibits the cleanest fragmentation. At very high voltages, the metal ions is either associated with a hydride or a methoxide ions.

Graphical abstractThe fragmentation patterns of four mononuclear transition metal carbonyl compounds have been investigated by energy-dependent electrospray mass spectrometry (EDESI-MS). The mass spectral data point out subtle difference in the fragmentation patterns.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide