We present the first compact hybrid triple-quadrupole inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-3Q-MS), designed for versatile fluorine, elemental, and molecular analysis. Fluorine is essential across various industries due to its unique chemical properties [1-4]. However, the environmental impact of persistent fluorinated compounds, such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), has become a significant concern [5]. Existing techniques for fluorine quantification face notable limitations [2, 6]. Ion chromatography and ion-selective electrodes detect only inorganic fluoride ions, are matrix-dependent, and require labor-intensive processes [7-9]. GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS enable targeted analysis but demand extensive sample preparation and costly standards, especially for unknown fluorinated substances [10]. Traditional ICP-MS is also unable to detect fluorine due to its high ionization potential [12]. While other promising methods for fluorine analysis have been developed [2-4, 11], these technologies remain at the research stage and are not yet commercialized.

The new compact hybrid ICP mass spectrometer addresses these challenges with an innovative sampling interface design and a miniaturized triple-quad architecture. The interface is fully air-cooled, eliminating the need for a chiller, and includes a unique reaction chamber for controlled ion-molecular reactions and soft ionization. This system offers dual polarity mode and features the next-generation conical ICP torch, reducing argon and power consumption by 50-70%. Using this technology, elements such as Ca, K, Fe, Se, and As can be analyzed without argon interference. We have also demonstrated various methods for fluorine analysis. This technology opens new possibilities for rapid, online testing across environmental, industrial, and pharmaceutical applications.

References
[1] H., Yahyavi, et al., Critical Reviews in Analytical Chemistry, 2016, 46.2, 106-121.
[2] N. L. A., Jamari, et al., Journal of Analytical Atomic Spectrometry, 2018, 33.8, 1304-1309.
[3] J., Lesniewski, et al., Analytical chemistry, 2019, 91.6, 3773-3777.
[4] J. L., Tanen, et al., Journal of Analytical Atomic Spectrometry, 2023, 38.4, 854-864.
[5] N. M., Brennan, et al., International journal of environmental research and public health, 2021, 18.20 10900.
[6] A. Koch, et al., TrAC Trends in Analytical Chemistry, 2020, 123, 115423.
[7] Y., Han, et al., ACS ES&T Water, 2021, 1.6, 1474-1482.
[8] A. O., De Silva, et al., Environmental toxicology and chemistry, 2021, 40.3, 631-657.
[9] Method 1621, US-EPA, 2024.
[10] Cancer Free Economy Network, A short guide to common testing methods for PFAS, 2020.
[11] R. L., Moirana, et al., Journal of Analytical Methods in Chemistry, 2021, 8837315.