Electrospray Cantilever Probe Segmented Capillaries
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surface sampling probes face limitations in achieving high spatial resolution due to the geometric configuration of capillaries, which can lead to plugging issues when trying to achieve resolutions better than 1 μm, as the inner diameter of the capillary needs to be smaller, but this results in flow path obstruction.
Innovation Solution
An electrospray system with a liquid extraction surface sampling probe that includes a probe body with a solvent delivery conduit and an open liquid extraction channel, where the aspect ratio of the channels is greater than one, and an electrospray emitter tip, allowing for improved solvent delivery and extraction, and integration with an atomic force microscope cantilever for enhanced sampling capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the inner diameter of the capillary is reduced to achieve better than 1 μm spatial resolution, then sampling spatial resolution is improved, but the capillary easily plugs the extract flow path
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is divided into two separate capillaries: an inner capillary for solvent delivery and an outer capillary for extract removal. This segmentation allows each capillary to have optimized dimensions for its specific function, preventing the plugging issues that would occur if a single capillary had to serve both purposes with a reduced inner diameter.
Solution Approach 2:
The outer capillary acts as an intermediary structure that provides a protected flow path for extract removal. By having the extract flow through the annular space between the inner and outer capillaries, the system avoids direct contact between the extract and the inner capillary surface, reducing plugging risks while maintaining high spatial resolution.
2Measurement precision
If the inner diameter of the spray capillary is made smaller to achieve spatial resolution better than 1 μm, then sampling precision is improved, but plugging problems limit the resolution that can be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is divided into two separate capillaries: an inner capillary for solvent delivery and an outer capillary for extract removal. This segmentation allows each capillary to have optimized dimensions for its specific function, preventing the plugging issues that would occur if a single capillary had to serve both purposes with a reduced inner diameter.
Solution Approach 2:
The outer capillary acts as an intermediary structure that provides a protected flow path for extract removal. By having the extract flow through the annular space between the inner and outer capillaries, the system avoids direct contact between the extract and the inner capillary surface, reducing plugging risks while maintaining high spatial resolution.
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
The system enables higher spatial resolution sampling by preventing clogging and allowing for continuous electrospray analysis, facilitating the analysis of samples with improved precision and efficiency, including the ability to handle wettable or absorbent surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
A solvent delivery conduit is provided for receiving solvent liquid from the liquid inlet and delivering the solvent liquid to the liquid extraction tip
Implementation Method 2
An open liquid extraction channel extends across an exterior surface of the probe body from the liquid extraction tip to the liquid outlet
Implementation Method 3
An electrospray emitter tip is in liquid communication with the liquid outlet of the liquid extraction surface sampling probe
Data Source
AI summary
An electrospray system comprises a liquid extraction surface sampling probe. The probe comprises a probe body having a liquid inlet and a liquid outlet, and having a liquid extraction tip. A solvent delivery conduit is provided for receiving solvent liquid from the liquid inlet and delivering the solvent liquid to the liquid extraction tip. An open liquid extraction channel extends across an exterior surface of the probe body from the liquid extraction tip to the liquid outlet. An electrospray emitter tip is in liquid communication with the liquid outlet of the liquid extraction surface sampling probe. A system for analyzing samples, a liquid junction surface sampling system, and a method of analyzing samples are also disclosed.