Dual Flow Element Mass Spectrometer for Simultaneous Liquid Gas Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mass spectrometers cannot simultaneously and automatically analyze both gaseous and liquid samples in real time without converting the device, limiting their application in process monitoring and control, particularly in the chemical industry.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that utilize two distinct flow elements, one for liquid and one for gaseous samples, with a liquid-impermeable and gas-permeable membrane for volatilizing substances, allowing for simultaneous mass spectrometric analysis of both phases without modification, enabling continuous and automated monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single mass spectrometer is used to analyze both liquid and gaseous samples, then the device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but the device cannot simultaneously analyze both phases without modification
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two separate flow elements: a first flow element for liquid samples and a second flow element for gaseous samples. This segmentation allows each flow element to be optimized for its specific sample type while both can be analyzed by the same mass spectrometer, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mass spectrometer is designed with universal capability to receive and analyze samples from both the first flow element (liquid) and the second flow element (gas). The device includes a valve assembly that can direct samples from either flow element to the mass spectrometer, enabling one instrument to perform multiple functions without requiring separate devices for each sample type.
2Productivity
If real-time simultaneous analysis of liquid and gaseous samples is implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases due to requiring multiple flow elements and valve control
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges the liquid sample analysis path (first flow element) and the gaseous sample analysis path (second flow element) into a single mass spectrometer system. Both flow elements connect to a common valve assembly that directs samples to the mass spectrometer, allowing simultaneous analysis capability while sharing common components to minimize overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly is designed with dynamic switching capability that can rapidly direct samples from either the first or second flow element to the mass spectrometer. This dynamic control enables real-time switching between sample types and phases, achieving high productivity through automated, rapid sample routing without requiring permanent complex infrastructure for each sample type.
3Extent of automation
If automated sample introduction and analysis is implemented, then extent of automation is improved, but difficulty of detecting and measuring increases due to requiring precise valve control and coordination
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates a control unit that receives signals from sensors monitoring the sample introduction process and automatically adjusts valve positions and timing. This feedback mechanism ensures precise coordination of sample flow from either the first or second flow element through the valve assembly to the mass spectrometer, achieving high automation while maintaining measurement accuracy through continuous monitoring and adjustment.
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
Enables real-time, fully automated analysis of both gaseous and liquid samples with high sensitivity and specificity, facilitating continuous process monitoring and control by determining volatile substances in both phases simultaneously, thus improving process reliability and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
introducing at least one or more substances from a liquid, preferably aqueous, sample into a first flow element of a device by volatilizing the at least one substance from the liquid, preferably aqueous, sample at a liquid-impermeable and gas-permeable membrane
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for analysis by mass spectrometer of liquid and/or gaseous samples and to a device (1) for carrying out said method. A a mass spectrometer (29) is used which has a first flow element (19) for liquid samples and a second flow element (21) for gaseous samples.