Real-Time Ion Fragmentation Control in Mass Spectrometry
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In mass spectrometry, determining the optimal collision energy for ion fragmentation is challenging, often requiring multiple attempts and resulting in over- or under-fragmentation, which reduces the quality and quantity of structural information available.
Innovation Solution
A method to control fragmentation by iteratively adjusting collision energy in real-time based on the ratio of unfragmented precursor ion to daughter ion currents, using the relation ΔCE = m*ln(ion current ratio) + B, where m and B are constants derived from theoretical analysis and experimentation, to achieve a predetermined range or value.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple attempts are made to determine optimal collision energy, then fragmentation quality improves, but analysis time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The useful action of determining optimal collision energy continues throughout the entire scan rather than requiring separate preliminary attempts. The system performs fragmentation optimization concurrently with data acquisition by continuously monitoring ion signals and adjusting collision energy, eliminating the need for time-consuming preliminary optimization steps.
Solution Approach 2:
Real-time feedback enables continuous optimization during the scan, allowing the system to determine optimal collision energy parameters without requiring multiple separate attempts. The feedback loop processes ion signal information and adjusts collision energy on-the-fly, achieving precise fragmentation control within a single continuous measurement.
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 approach enables the determination of optimal collision energy to within one electron volt in seven or fewer iterations, improving ion fragmentation efficiency and quality of structural information.
Implementation Method 1
Fragments are produced through collision-induced dissociation (CID) upon collision with the neutral gas atoms or molecules
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
This invention relates to mass spectrometers which modulate sample collision energy. A system, method or computer usable medium are disclosed for controlling fragmentation of ions during mass spectral analysis. A starting collision energy is provided withm a mass spectrometer, fragmenting at least one of a plurality of precursor ions generated from the sample to produce a plurality of daughter fragmented ions. An ion current associated with the unfragmented precursor ions and an ion current associated with the daughter ion fragments in the mass spectrometer are determined. A ratio of the current associated with the unfragmented precursor ions to the current associated with the daughter ion fragments is then determined. The collision energy provided in the mass spectrometer is adjusted to move the ratio toward a predetermined range value.