Paper spray ionization: Applications and perspectives.

Paper spray ionization has grown to become one of the most successful ambient ionization methods within the past decade. Requiring little to no sample preparation and being remarkably simple to construct, this technique has seen application in a wide number of fields. This review approaches the mechanism of how paper spray works, and seeks to better classify what it is and is not in a rapidly expanding field of ambient techniques. Additionally, many applications of the technique in clinical, forensic, environmental, and reaction monitoring regimes are explored. Finally, perspectives towards the future of how paper spray could be utilized will be expanded upon, including unexplored substrates and possibilities for the 'omics space. Image 1 • Paper spray has become one of the most popular ambient ionization techniques. • Significant progress has been made recently in developing methods and applications. • Herein these methods and applications are explored in a variety of research spaces. • Future efforts will include 'omics applications and further design developments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]