Dielectric Barrier Discharge Mass Spectrometer Ionization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mass spectrometry methods face issues such as ion loss during introduction through orifices or capillaries, low ion density due to corona discharge, fragmentation of molecule ions under reduced pressure, and low sensitivity in dielectric barrier discharge methods, which complicate analysis and reduce ionization efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A mass spectrometer design featuring a dielectric barrier discharge system with alternating current voltage applied between electrodes, operating under a pressure gradient between a high-pressure first chamber and a low-pressure second chamber, which generates plasma for ionization while minimizing fragmentation and enhancing sensitivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If atmospheric pressure chemical ionization is used, then ionization can be performed at atmospheric pressure, but ion loss occurs when ions pass through orifices or capillaries and the density of charged particles is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the pressure parameter from atmospheric pressure to reduced pressure (1-100 Torr) to increase ion density and reduce ion loss during transmission, while maintaining ease of operation through automated pressure control systems
2Quantity of substance
If glow discharge ionization is used under reduced pressure, then ion density increases, but fragmentation of molecule ions occurs making analysis difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the discharge power and pressure parameters during the ionization process to maintain molecule ion integrity while achieving sufficient ion density, preventing excessive fragmentation that would complicate spectral analysis
3Temperature
If dielectric barrier discharge under atmospheric pressure is used, then low temperature plasma can be generated, but sensitivity is low due to ion loss through orifices or capillaries
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the pressure parameter from atmospheric pressure to reduced pressure (1-100 Torr) to eliminate ion loss through orifices, thereby dramatically improving detection sensitivity while maintaining low plasma temperature through controlled dielectric barrier discharge parameters
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach achieves highly sensitive ionization with minimal fragmentation by optimizing plasma generation and pressure conditions, improving ionization efficiency and reducing ion loss, thereby simplifying mass spectrum analysis.
Implementation Method 1
a power source of superimposing an alternating current voltage at a frequency equal to or higher than 1 and equal to or lower than 300 kHz on one of the first electrode and the second electrode and ionizing the sample by a discharge generated between the first electrode and the second electrode
Implementation Method 2
a mass analyzing portion of analyzing an ion extracted from the extracting portion
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
AI summary
A mass spectrometer of ionizing a sample by a dielectric barrier discharge under a reduced pressure. An ionization with inconsiderable fragmentation can be carried out highly sensitively by the present invention.