Dataset for: Sensitive detection of n-alkanes using a mixed ionization mode proton-transfer-reaction mass spectrometer

This dataset reports data from a method using proton-transfer-reaction mass spectrometry (PTR-MS) to detect n-alkanes. The method involved modifying the ion source and drift tube conditions to change the relative amount of primary ions (hydronium (H3O+), dioxygenyl (O2+), nitrosonium (NO+)) in the drift tube. Data includes signal intensity (counts per units second) for four n-alkanes at 1 water flow rate, 3 sensitivities, 5 electrical fields, and 5 source-out voltages. Additionally the sensitivity of 9 straight chain alkanes detected by proton transfer, charge transfer, and hydride abstraction are reported. The PTR-MS method was validated by analyzing gas phase n-alkanes evaporated from a sample of MC252 oil. The evaporated n-alkanes were measured after 2, 8, and 12 hours. PTR-MS data were compared to the amount of n-alkanes in the liquid phase of fresh oil and after 2, 8, and 12 hours as measured by GCxGC. The concentration of n-alkanes measured in the liquid phase and gas phase are reported. This dataset supports the paper Amador-Munoz, O. , Misztal, P.K., Weber, R., Worton, D.R., Zhang, H., Drozd, G., Goldstein, A.H. (2016). Sensitive detection of n-alkanes using a mixed ionization mode proton-transfer-reaction mass spectrometer. Atmospheric Measurement Techniques, 9, 11, 5315-5329. doi:10.5194/amt-9-5315-2016.