Heated Gas Probe Ionization for Heavy Alkane Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mass spectrometry struggles to effectively analyze heavy alkanes, particularly waxes and asphaltenes, due to their complex nature and difficulty in ionization, which limits their characterization in petroleum-derived samples.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a probe with a material connected to a high voltage source and a heated gas for ambient ionization, where the heated gas participates in a chemical reaction to ionize the sample, allowing for the analysis of heavy alkanes using mass spectrometry, including the use of porous materials like paper or metal tips.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional mass spectrometry methods are used, then light hydrocarbons can be analyzed, but heavy alkanes and waxes cannot be effectively ionized and analyzed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the ionization parameters by using atmospheric pressure conditions instead of vacuum, applying high voltage (several kV) to the probe, and using heated gas (e.g., nitrogen at elevated temperature). These parameter changes enable effective ionization of heavy alkanes and waxes that cannot be ionized by conventional mass spectrometry methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a heated gas (such as nitrogen) as an intermediary that facilitates the ionization process. The heated gas interacts with the sample on the probe surface and with the high voltage field to generate ions from heavy alkanes, acting as a mediator between the high voltage source and the analyte molecules.
2Adaptability or versatility
If high voltage and heated gas are applied for ionization, then heavy alkanes can be analyzed, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe serves multiple functions: it holds the sample, applies high voltage for ionization, and is heated by the heated gas. This multi-functional design reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall system while enabling analysis of diverse petroleum-derived compounds including waxes and asphaltenes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses readily available components such as a simple probe (which can be a metal rod or porous material), common gases like nitrogen, and standard mass spectrometry equipment. The heated gas both heats the probe and participates in the ionization process, creating a self-reinforcing system that reduces complexity.
3Measurement precision
If porous materials are used for sample deposition, then ionization efficiency improves, but the material selection and preparation becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs porous materials (such as porous polymer beads or porous metal oxides) on the probe surface to deposit and concentrate the sample. The porous structure provides high surface area for sample interaction with the heated gas and high voltage field, significantly improving ionization efficiency for heavy alkanes and waxes.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe with porous material can be easily replaced or regenerated. Simple probes made from common materials can be used once or a few times and then discarded or regenerated by heating to remove deposited sample, reducing the need for complex cleaning and preparation procedures.
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 the analysis of previously difficult-to-analyze heavy alkanes, such as waxes, by generating ions through simultaneous ionization and chemical reaction, providing detailed characterization and tracking of carbon forms in petroleum processing.
Implementation Method 1
a probe including a material connected to a high voltage source
Implementation Method 2
The heated gas assists in ionizing the sample and participates in a chemical reaction with the sample
Implementation Method 3
the heated gas is directed at a tip of the probe... the gas within the chamber is heated and consequently heats the probe
Implementation Method 4
a device for generating a heated gas... the heated gas does not need to be directed at the probe
Implementation Method 5
the heated gas assists in ionizing the sample and participates in a chemical reaction with the sample, i.e., the heated gas participates in an ionic reaction to ionize the sample
Implementation Method 6
a mass analyzer... allow for mass spectral analysis of heavy alkanes
Data Source
AI summary
The invention generally relates to systems and methods for sample analysis. In certain embodiments, the invention provides a system for analyzing a sample that includes a probe including a material connected to a high voltage source, a device for generating a heated gas, and a mass analyzer.