Funnel-Shaped Sample Support for Stronger Mass Spectrometry Ionization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for mass spectrometry suffer from low signal intensity of ionized sample components, necessitating improvements in sample support bodies and ionization techniques.
Innovation Solution
A sample support body with through-holes having larger second openings than first openings, a funnel-shaped design, and a conductive layer made of materials like platinum or gold, facilitating smooth movement and reliable ionization of sample components using an energy beam.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional sample support bodies with uniform through-holes are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the signal intensity of ionized sample components is low
Solution Approach 1:
The through-holes are designed with asymmetric cross-sections where the opening width at the first surface is different from the opening width at the second surface. Specifically, the opening width at the first surface is larger than the opening width at the second surface, creating a tapered or funnel-shaped structure that improves sample component accumulation and ionization efficiency, thereby increasing signal intensity without requiring complex manufacturing processes
Solution Approach 2:
The sample support body has through-holes with non-uniform cross-sectional areas along their length. The opening width varies locally, being larger at one surface and smaller at the other surface. This local variation in geometry creates regions with different properties that enhance sample component concentration and ionization at specific locations, improving overall detection sensitivity
2Ease of operation
If the through-holes have larger openings at the sample-facing surface, then sample components can move smoothly and accumulate effectively, but the structural design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The through-holes feature asymmetric opening widths where the aperture at the sample-facing first surface is larger than the aperture at the opposite second surface. This asymmetric geometry creates a natural funnel effect that guides sample components smoothly through the substrate while promoting their accumulation at the detection surface, enhancing operational effectiveness without requiring complex external mechanisms
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
Enhances signal intensity of ionized components in mass spectrometry by ensuring efficient ionization and detection, particularly through the use of a substrate formed by anodizing valve metals or silicon and a conductive layer with uniform voltage application.
Implementation Method 1
a laser desorption/ionization method is known as a method of ionizing a sample such as a biological sample
Implementation Method 2
ionizing components of the sample having moved to the first surface side through the plurality of through-holes by irradiating the first surface with an energy beam while applying a voltage to the conductive layer
Implementation Method 3
components of the sample move smoothly toward the first surface through the plurality of through-holes
Data Source
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AI summary
A sample support body is for ionization of a sample. The sample support body includes a substrate including a first surface and a second surface on sides opposite to each other, and a conduction layer provided at least on the first surface. A plurality of through-holes opening on the first surface and the second surface are formed in an effective region of the substrate, the effective region being for ionizing components of the sample. A width of a second opening on the second surface side is larger than a width of a first opening on the first surface side in each of the plurality of through-holes.