Mass Spectrometer Ion Source Bubble Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
The signal instability in mass spectrometers due to bubble introduction during sample ionization leads to decreased measurement accuracy, especially near the lower detection limit, as the Taylor cone formation becomes unstable and ionization stops or becomes unstable.
Innovation Solution
A mass spectrometer design incorporating a sample-feeding unit, an ion source unit with a solution-sending pipe and deaeration solution storage unit to remove bubbles, ensuring stable Taylor cone formation and ionization by applying high voltage after bubble removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the sample is ionized by the ionization unit of the mass spectrometer using the sandwich method with bubbles, then the sample loss during injection is reduced and the S/N ratio is excellent, but the signal becomes unstable and measurement accuracy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by introducing a bubble removal unit that eliminates bubbles from the sample solution before it reaches the ionization unit. This preliminary removal of harmful bubbles prevents the subsequent instability in Taylor cone formation and signal fluctuations, while preserving the beneficial sandwich method sample introduction approach that provides excellent S/N ratio and reduced sample loss.
2Productivity
If bubbles are introduced during sample ionization, then the sample can be continuously introduced using carrier solvent, but the Taylor cone formation becomes unstable and ionization stops or becomes unstable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the taking out principle by extracting and removing bubbles from the sample solution through a dedicated bubble removal unit positioned between the sample introduction system and the ionization unit. This extraction of the harmful bubble component allows continuous sample introduction to proceed while preventing bubble-induced instability in Taylor cone formation and ionization processes.
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 design stabilizes the ionization process, improving the reproducibility of measurements by maintaining a stable Taylor cone and reducing sample loss, thereby enhancing the accuracy of quantitative measurements.
Implementation Method 1
a high voltage is applied to a sample solution 104 flowing through the spray unit between the spray unit and the counter electrode to create a Taylor cone 105 and ionize the sample
Implementation Method 2
separates the generated ions according to their mass-to-charge ratios using an electric field or a magnetic field
Implementation Method 3
measures the amounts thereof as electric current values with a detector
Data Source
AI summary
A mass spectrometry is equipped with a liquid specimen supply part which supplies a liquid specimen sandwiched between bubbles, an ion source part ionizes the specimen, and a mass spectrometry part which detects ions separated in accordance with mass. In particular the ion source part is configured so as to include a liquid supply tube for transporting a specimen from the liquid specimen supply part, a degassing/liquid retention part in which bubbles are removed, a spraying part which ionizes the specimen, and a high-voltage power supply part which applies a high voltage to the spraying part. The device is further characterized in that after removing the bubbles, a Taylor cone is formed from the resultant pre-solution, and the specimen is ionized thereafter. Thus, the ionization of an intended specimen is stabilized, and the measurement reproducibility is improved.