Demountable ICP Torch Holder With External Plasma Ignition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current inductively coupled plasma (ICP) analysis systems face challenges in maintaining efficient plasma generation and sample analysis, particularly in mass cytometry, due to limitations in torch design and ignition methods, which complicate maintenance and reduce operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The development of a demountable ICP torch holder assembly with an external ignition device using dielectric barrier discharge and an ICP load coil with an annular fin, allowing for easier maintenance and improved plasma stability, along with advanced sample introduction fluidics for efficient sample processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If a traditional integrated ICP torch design is used, then plasma generation is maintained, but maintenance complexity increases and operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The ICP torch is divided into separate modular components including the torch body, torch holder, and load coil assembly that can be independently removed and maintained. The torch holder serves as a demountable interface that retains the torch body while allowing easy access for maintenance operations without affecting other system components.
2Reliability
If conventional ignition methods are used, then plasma ignition is achieved, but ignition reliability is insufficient and operational stability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
An external ignition device is introduced as an intermediary component that generates a spark discharge to reliably ignite the plasma in the ICP torch. The ignition device includes electrodes positioned to create a discharge across the torch inlet, providing consistent and reliable plasma ignition without requiring modifications to the torch structure itself.
3Reliability
If high outer gas flow is used, then plasma stability is maintained, but gas consumption increases and operational cost rises
Solution Approach 1:
The system optimizes plasma stability by adjusting operational parameters including reduced outer gas flow rates combined with optimized RF power levels and improved torch alignment. The modular torch holder design allows for precise positioning of the torch body to maximize plasma confinement and stability while minimizing gas consumption through optimized flow paths and reduced turbulence.
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 configuration enhances the longevity and ease of maintenance of ICP components, reduces the need for outer gas flow, and enables reliable plasma ignition, thereby improving the efficiency and productivity of ICP analysis systems, particularly in mass cytometry applications.
Implementation Method 1
an external ignition device using dielectric barrier discharge
Implementation Method 2
ICP load coil with an annular fin
Implementation Method 3
ICP analyzers use an ICP torch to generate a plasma in which a sample is atomized an ionized
Data Source
AI summary
Inductively coupled plasma (ICP) analyzers use an ICP torch to generate a plasma in which a sample is atomized an ionized. Analysis of the atomic ions can be performed by atomic analysis, such as mass spectrometry (MS) or atomic emission spectrometry (AES). Particle based ICP analysis includes analysis of particles such as cells, beads, or laser ablation plumes, by atomizing and ionizing particles in an ICP torch followed by atomic analysis. In mass cytometry, mass tags of particles are analyzed by mass spectrometry, such as by ICP-MS. Systems and methods of the subject application include one or more of: a demountable ICP torch holder assembly, an external ignition device; an ICP load coil comprising an annular fin, particle suspension sample introduction fluidics, and ICP analyzers thereof.