Mass Spectrometer Permeation Measurement Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas permeation measurement devices face challenges in providing reliable and accurate measurements due to variability in ionization current readings from mass spectrometers, which require lengthy calibration processes and do not adequately correct for signal fluctuations during permeation measurements.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that utilize a calibrated reference gas flow to continuously measure and correct for variations in ionization currents, allowing real-time correction of permeation measurements by comparing the reference gas measurements with a calibrated flow, thereby stabilizing the measurement of target gases through a material.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a mass spectrometer is used to measure permeation flows with high sensitivity, then measurement sensitivity is improved, but ionization current variability causes measurement reliability to deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a feedback mechanism by continuously monitoring the ionization current signal from the mass spectrometer and comparing it against a reference value. When deviations are detected, the system automatically adjusts measurements or triggers recalibration, ensuring reliable data despite signal variability. This closed-loop approach maintains measurement reliability while preserving the high sensitivity of the mass spectrometer.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by dynamically adjusting measurement parameters such as ionization current thresholds, integration times, and calibration frequencies based on real-time signal quality assessment. This allows the system to adapt to varying ionization conditions while maintaining measurement reliability, resolving the contradiction between sensitivity and reliability.
2Reliability
If calibration procedures are implemented to correct ionization current variability, then measurement reliability is improved, but measurement time is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic calibration actions at optimized intervals based on observed signal stability rather than continuous calibration. The system performs rapid reference measurements at predetermined intervals or when specific variability thresholds are exceeded, maintaining measurement reliability without the time penalty of continuous calibration procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary calibration assessments to determine whether full calibration procedures are necessary. By pre-evaluating signal variability and comparing against acceptance criteria, the system can proceed with measurements using minimal correction when conditions are favorable, thereby maintaining reliability while minimizing time loss.
3Measurement precision
If reference gas flow is continuously supplied to correct for signal fluctuations, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a reference gas flow as an intermediary substance that mediates between the mass spectrometer's ionization variations and the actual permeation measurements. By monitoring the reference gas signal, the system can correct for ionization current fluctuations without requiring complex hardware modifications, thus improving accuracy while limiting complexity increases.
Solution Approach 2:
The reference gas system serves multiple functions: it provides a stability reference for ionization current correction, validates mass spectrometer operation, and enables detection of system drift. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering multiple benefits from a single system addition.
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 reliable and accurate permeation measurements without extending measurement times, reduces background noise, and simplifies calibration procedures, particularly for gases like water, by using neutral gases like argon, nitrogen, or krypton to correct for fluctuations in mass spectrometer readings.
Implementation Method 1
the signal from the mass spectrometer corresponds to the ionization current (optionally amplified) of the masses of interest corresponding to the target gas
Implementation Method 2
By permeation, is meant the mechanism for letting a gas through a material according to gas absorption steps in the material, by diffusion steps of this gas through the material, and by desorption of the gas on the other side of the material
Implementation Method 3
by diffusion steps of this gas through the material
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for measuring permeation of gases through a material comprising the following steps:a) Supplying gas to a permeation enclosure (10) during which a first chamber (11) is supplied with a target gas flow comprising at least one target gas corresponding to a gas for which one tries to determine the permeation through the material (M), and simultaneous supplying gas to a measurement enclosure (20) with at least one calibrated flow comprising at least one reference gas different from the target gas;b) during the gas supply step, measuring in the measurement enclosure (20) the reference gas present at instant (t) and the target gas present at the same instant (t) after having crossed the material (M) by permeation;c) calculating a correction factor at instant (t) by comparing the measurement of the reference gas present at instant (t) with the reference gas supply calibrated flow; andd) determining the permeation of the material (M) to said gas, from the measurement of the target gas present at instant (t) corrected with the correction factor at instant (t).