Advancements in ambient ionisation mass spectrometry in 2024: An annual review

The introduction of ambient ionisation mass spectrometry (AIMS) is among the most important developments in analytical chemistry in recent years. Enabling the direct analysis of samples in their native state with neither sample preparation nor chromatographic separation provides chemical characterisation in a matter of seconds. Since its inception in the early 2000s, the field of ambient ionisation has continued to expand and develop, pushing the boundaries of analytical chemistry and finding utility across broad areas of scientific research. This annual review provides an overview of key developments and applications of AIMS throughout 2024. The introduction of novel ion sources, development of existing techniques for enhanced performance, and diverse applications across forensic science, food chemistry, disease detection and more highlight the expanding versatility and widespread adoption of ambient ionisation across the globe.