Mesh Target Ion Source for Mass Spectrometry Spray Convergence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multimode ion sources for mass spectrometry are mechanically complex and suffer from lower sensitivities due to divergent spray geometries, which hinder efficient ionization of analyte mixtures with a wide range of polarities.
Innovation Solution
An ion source design featuring a nebuliser that emits a high-density droplet stream with a close-coupled impactor target, optimizing the spray tip and target proximity to minimize beam divergence and enhance ionization efficiency, utilizing a mesh or grid target to deflect and ionize droplets effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a broad area charged target plate is used in SACI ion source, then the ionization area is increased, but the spray becomes divergent and sensitivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the target into multiple wire meshes arranged in parallel, creating multiple discrete ionization zones instead of a single broad area target. This segmentation maintains a compact target geometry that preserves spray convergence while providing sufficient ionization area through the distributed wire mesh structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional broad area target plate to a three-dimensional wire mesh structure with wires arranged in parallel at specific spacing. This dimensional change creates multiple ionization pathways while maintaining a compact footprint, preserving spray convergence.
2Adaptability or versatility
If ESI and APCI are combined in multimode ion source, then ionization capability for wide polarity range is improved, but mechanical complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal ionization system where the wire mesh target serves multiple functions: it provides ionization for both polar and non-polar analytes, replaces the need for separate ESI and APCI systems, and maintains a simple mechanical structure throughout.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the ionization capabilities for different polarity analytes into a single wire mesh target system, eliminating the need for separate ESI and APCI ion sources and their associated complex mechanical structures.
3Length of stationary object
If spray tip to target distance is increased, then ionization area is increased, but beam divergence increases and sensitivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating multiple localized ionization zones along the wire mesh structure. Each wire or group of wires creates a focused ionization region, ensuring that even though the target has extended area, the local spray-to-target geometry remains optimized for convergence.
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 achieves higher sensitivity and efficient ionization of both high and low polarity analytes without the need to switch ionization techniques, improving the overall performance of mass spectrometry by increasing spray flux and reducing beam dispersion.
Implementation Method 1
droplets are ionised by impact on a mesh or grid target
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2(a)~3
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AI summary
An ion source is disclosed comprising one or more nebulisers and one or more mesh or grid targets (20). The one or more nebulisers are arranged and adapted to emit, in use, a stream predominantly of droplets which are caused to impact upon the one or more mesh or grid targets (20) and to ionise the droplets to form a plurality of ions.