Mass Spectrometry SRM Calibration Protocols for Cashmere Wool Blends
Selected reaction monitoring mass spectrometry quantifies cashmere wool blends down to one percent using species-specific tryptic keratin peptides.
Response Factor Determination
Calibration Formula
Calibration procedures in quantitative mass spectrometry establish the mathematical relationship between the measured peak area ratios and the actual weight percentages of the analyte. Through response factor determination, laboratories compensate for the different ionization efficiencies of sheep and goat peptides. This process is necessary to translate the raw peak data into accurate fiber content percentages.
Standard Preparation
Analyzing a series of known wool and cashmere blends is the standard method for establishing this correction factor. In this context, response factor determination involves plotting the measured peptide ratios against the actual weight ratios. This curve provides the calibration factor used for all subsequent routine testing.
Correction Calculation
Different amino acid sequences can ionize with varying efficiency under standard mass spectrometry conditions. Therefore, response factor determination ensures that these chemical differences do not distort the final results of the fiber analysis. This correction is critical when analyzing blended yarns with low concentrations of cashmere.
Trade Assurance
Accurately calibrated mass spectrometry results are essential for resolving disputes between garment manufacturers and textile buyers. Utilizing a certified response factor determination method prevents false claims of product adulteration. This testing protects honest mills from unfair claims and ensures that retail customers receive genuine cashmere.
It establishes a level playing field for the global textile trade by standardizing testing outcomes across different production regions.