Laser Desorption Ionization Sample Support With Through Holes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mass spectrometry methods face challenges in improving the detection intensity of ionized samples, particularly in non-destructive ionization of thermally unstable and high-molecular-weight substances.
Innovation Solution
A laser desorption/ionization method utilizing a sample support body with through holes and a conductive layer, where a solvent with refractoriness in a vacuum is introduced into the holes, allowing components of the sample to be moved and ionized effectively by a laser beam while applying voltage to the conductive layer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional MALDI method using low-molecular-weight organic matrix is employed, then soft ionization of thermally unstable substances is achieved, but detection intensity of ionized sample is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a conductive layer as an intermediary between the sample and the laser irradiation surface. This conductive layer enables efficient energy transfer from the laser beam to the sample components while maintaining the soft ionization characteristics of MALDI, thereby improving detection intensity without compromising the gentleness of ionization for thermally unstable substances.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the sample support body by introducing a conductive layer with specific electrical conductivity properties. This parameter change enhances the interaction between the laser beam and sample, improving ionization efficiency and detection intensity while preserving the soft ionization mechanism necessary for thermally unstable compounds.
2Ease of manufacture
If SALDI method without matrix is used, then ionization is achieved, but detection intensity remains insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a composite structure combining a conductive layer with specific material properties on the sample support body. This composite material approach enables effective ionization without requiring traditional matrix compounds, simplifying the system while enhancing detection intensity through improved energy coupling between the laser and sample.
3Speed
If solvent with volatility in vacuum is used, then sample components can be moved through through holes, but solvent evaporates and sample components are not reliably retained on surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the volatility parameter of the solvent by selecting compounds with appropriate vapor pressures for vacuum conditions. This parameter optimization ensures that the solvent can effectively transport sample components through the through holes while maintaining sufficient retention on the surface for reliable ionization, balancing transport efficiency with sample stability.
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 enhances the detection intensity of ionized samples by ensuring the solvent and sample components remain on the surface, allowing for reliable ionization and improved sensitivity in mass spectrometry.
Implementation Method 1
ionizing a component of the sample that is mixed with the solvent and is moved to the first surface side from the second surface side through the through hole by irradiating the first surface with laser beam while applying a voltage to the conductive layer
Implementation Method 2
the solvent has refractoriness in a vacuum. For this reason, the solvent is more reliably remained on the first surface side, compared to a case where the solvent has volatility in a vacuum
Data Source
AI summary
A laser desorption/ionization method, includes: a first step of preparing a sample support body including a substrate on which a plurality of through holes opening to a first surface and a second surface facing each other are formed, a conductive layer provided on at least the first surface, and a solvent provided in the plurality of through holes with refractoriness in a vacuum; a second step of mounting a sample on a mounting surface of a mounting portion, and of disposing the sample support body on the sample such that the second surface is in contact with the sample; and a third step of ionizing a component of the sample that is mixed with the solvent and is moved to the first surface side from the second surface side through the through hole by irradiating the first surface with laser beam while applying a voltage to the conductive layer.