Silicon Microcolumn Arrays for Stable Ion Yield Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry methods exhibit spontaneous fluctuations in ion yield, which are difficult to control, and lack efficient manipulation of ion production from biomolecules using photonic structures.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a pulsed laser source with a polarizer to rotate the plane of polarized radiation between s-polarized and p-polarized radiation, combined with a semiconductor-based array of quasi-periodic columnar structures, to control ion production and fragmentation in mass spectrometry, by adjusting the angle of incidence and polarization of the laser radiation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional LDI-MS ion sources (MALDI, DIOS, NIMS) are used, then ion production is achieved, but spontaneous fluctuations in ion yield occur that are difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying laser fluence, wavelength, and polarization state to control ion yield from LISMA structures. By changing these parameters, the invention achieves stable and controllable ion production, resolving the spontaneity issue of conventional methods while maintaining ease of operation through predictable parameter-ion yield relationships
2Productivity
If laser fluence is increased to control ion yield, then ion production increases, but spontaneous fluctuations and lack of precise control persist
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies dynamics by enabling continuous adjustment of ion yield through variable laser parameters (fluence, wavelength, polarization angle) rather than fixed configurations. This dynamic control allows precise tuning of ion production levels while maintaining consistency, eliminating the trade-off between productivity and reliability
3Adaptability or versatility
If nanophotonic structures (LISMA) are used, then unique optical properties and high absorptance are achieved, but manipulation of ion production from biomolecules has not been previously demonstrated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent demonstrates manipulation of ion production from LISMA structures by changing laser parameters (wavelength, polarization, fluence). This shows that the unique optical properties of nanophotonic structures can be effectively utilized for controlled biomolecule ionization, achieving both adaptability and ease of operation
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 provides novel control over ion production and fragmentation, allowing for increased or decreased ionization without laser attenuation, with enhanced sensitivity and dynamic range, enabling precise analysis of various samples.
Implementation Method 1
Laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry (LDI-MS) of organic molecules and biomolecules provides chemical analysis with great selectivity and sensitivity
Implementation Method 2
nanophotonic ion sources couple the laser energy to the nanostructures via a fundamentally different mechanism due to the quasiperiodic or periodic and oriented nature of the arrays
Implementation Method 3
A system utilizing a pulsed laser source with a polarizer to rotate the plane of polarized radiation between s-polarized and p-polarized radiation
Data Source
AI summary
The production and use of silicon microcolumn arrays that harvest light from a laser pulse to produce ions are described. The systems of the present invention seem to behave like a quasi-periodic antenna array with ion yields that show profound dependence on the plane of laser light polarization and the angle of incidence. By providing photonic ion sources, this enables enhanced control of ion production on a micro/nano scale and direct integration with miniaturized analytical devices.