Replaceable Electrospray Emitter Assembly for Low-Dead-Volume LC-MS
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electrospray emitter assemblies for mass spectrometry suffer from high dead volume, poor reproducibility, and difficulty in replacing emitters, leading to reduced chromatographic separation and detection sensitivity, especially in nano LC-MS applications.
Innovation Solution
A removably connected electrospray emitter assembly with a fitting and integrated stop for low dead-volume connection, featuring a retractable protective sleeve and conductive sheath for easy installation and protection, compatible with various flow rates and column types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional ESI emitter assemblies are used with multiple connections and transfer lines, then the emitter can be connected to the LC column, but the dead volume increases and chromatographic separation quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the emitter assembly with the LC column by embedding the emitter directly into the column structure, eliminating separate transfer lines and multiple connections. This merging of components reduces the dead volume while maintaining reliable liquid flow path from the column to the emitter tip.
2Ease of operation
If users manually assemble nano spray emitter with nano LC column using sleeves and fittings, then connection can be achieved, but improper connections cause leaks, breaks, and poor reproducibility
Solution Approach 1:
The emitter is embedded directly into the LC column structure, eliminating the need for separate assembly steps involving sleeves and fittings. This integrated design ensures proper alignment and connection reliability while simplifying the assembly process to a single insertion operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated emitter assembly is designed to be self-aligning and self-securing within the column structure, eliminating the need for user intervention in complex assembly procedures. The design inherently prevents improper connections through its structural configuration.
3Measurement precision
If small inner diameter columns are used to reduce flow rate for high sensitivity MS detection, then detection sensitivity improves, but the requirement for low dead volume connections becomes more critical
Solution Approach 1:
The emitter is integrated directly into the LC column, creating a continuous flow path with minimal dead volume. This design is particularly beneficial for small inner diameter columns operating at low flow rates, as it prevents peak broadening and maintains the high detection sensitivity required for nano LC-MS applications.
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
The assembly provides reliable, low-dead-volume connections, enhances chromatographic separation, and improves MS detection sensitivity by minimizing user intervention and ensuring reproducible results across different flow rates.
Implementation Method 1
Electrospray ionization (ESI) is a technique to produce gas phase ions from liquid solution while applying a high voltage to create aerosol
Implementation Method 2
A voltage is applied across the stop with the through hole to the liquid entering the emitter
Data Source
AI summary
An electrospray emitter assembly for interfacing a separation column to a mass spectrometer is disclosed. An emitter capillary includes an inlet end and an outlet end. A fitting is coupled to the inlet end of the emitter, configured to be removably connected to the separation column. A stop with a defined through hole is integrated proximate the inlet end of the emitter to produce a path for liquid to flow from the separation column to the emitter via the through hole where a voltage is applied to the liquid entering the emitter.