Abstract
This chapter discusses the most typical sources of the instability of the measured ion currents. It also focuses on the ion current stabilization techniques used in isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS). The quality of isotope ratio measurements made with a mass spectrometer primarily depends on the stability of the ion currents. One can easily recognize whether the ion beams fluctuate due to instabilities of high voltage, or magnetic field, or due to variation of the ion production rate. A test of this is to set the major beam at the edge of the collector slit in the position at which the ion current drops to about half of its maximum value. The electric leaks are due to presence of various kinds of impurities on the collector ceramics and feedthrough insulators. The insulation quality of the vacuum feedthroughs and the ceramic spacers of the collector assembly can be tested by observing the noise of the amplifiers on the most sensitive ranges. However, having stable ion beams, pure samples, and a high quality inlet system chances for good and long-term performance provided that settings of the IRMS are favorable.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
