The trace detection instrumental platform relies on devices developed in-house, combining established expertise in portable mass spectrometry (FTICR or quadrupole), ionization methods, and microfluidic chip design/coupling. These technologies enable real-time detection of trace compounds by mass spectrometry. Historically, studies have focused on volatile organic compounds (VOCs), but new instruments now allow the analysis of highly volatile gases (e.g., rare gases, H2) as well as larger molecules (up to proteins).

The instrument pool is the result of close collaboration with AlyXan, a company that markets compact FT-ICR mass spectrometers derived from work done at the ICP. The real-time quantitative approaches developed are based on the selectivity provided by chemical ionization and on the precision and high mass resolution obtained with compact FT-ICR spectrometers. Three instruments are currently dedicated to real-time analysis:

Compact FTICR: A unique instrument from the AQUAREM project. Its high resolution (R=10,000) allows for 0.01 mass unit resolution for small molecules and the identification of molecular formulas.
Expertise in ion-molecule reactivity, combined with controlled ionization conditions within the instrument, has enabled the development of a wide range of specific precursors (H3O⁺, CF₃⁺, O2⁺, OH⁻, etc.) tailored to the type of molecules to be studied.

Recently, this instrument was used in Taous Abar's thesis for the analysis of volatile organic compounds emitted by sweat. Its detection speed (a few seconds) allowed for the identification of rapid processes, such as real-time studies of photocatalyst or plasma reactivity.

Quadrupole filter: This simpler device was specifically set up for analyzing light gases (e.g., rare gases, H2, NOx). It features an optimized gas line for quantifying gaseous effluents from catalytic processes or degassing from liquid solutions.

XEVO TQ (Waters) with HPLC ACquity and sample injector:
As part of the MEGOPE project (ANR 2022-26), an HPLC-ESI-Triple Quad Waters setup was acquired. It enables studies of larger molecules (proteins) and will be adapted for real-time analysis of organic and organometallic reactors.