The photophysics and surface chemistry of trapped nanoparticle ions as studied by ion trap nanoparticle mass spectrometry

Ion tap nanoparticle mass spectrometry (NPMS) is employed to study the photophysics and surface chemistry of trapped nanoparticle ions. The ion trap instrument and the approaches to measure the mass, charge, and emission spectrum of trapped nanoparticles is discussed. The photophysics and thermal properties of trapped semiconductor nanocrystal "quantum dot" ions is also discussed, as well as their suitability for use as noncontact fluorescence probes in the gas phase. Finally, a method to study the surface chemistry of nanoparticles at temperatures in excess of 2000oC is described and a proof of principle example is provided.