Development and characterization of discontinuous atmospheric pressure interface - Dual pressure chamber miniature mass spectrometer

Abstract

Miniaturized mass spectrometers have become increasingly prevalent for real-time detection and analysis, owing to their compact size and portability. The pursuit of performance enhancement in these instruments is a pivotal objective within the domain of mass spectrometry miniaturization. This study introduces a novel miniature mass spectrometer featuring a discontinuous atmospheric pressure interface and a dual pressure chamber. Compared to conventional single-chamber, discontinuous sampling interface mass spectrometers, the newly developed instrument demonstrates a more than tenfold improvement in detection efficiency. This significant enhancement is achieved without the need for complex control of switch coupling time series, thereby streamlining the circuit design and improving the instrument's fault tolerance. Furthermore, by capitalizing on the benefits of discontinuous sampling, the instrument reduces the operational pressure relative to traditional continuous sampling in differential pressure vacuum chambers. It accommodates larger inlet capillary (0.38 mm) and skimmer (0.5 mm) diameters, leading to a ninefold increase in response strength for risperidone and lowering the detection limit to 0.5 ppb. The instrument's capacity for rapid drug detection, along with enhanced resolution and detection limits, underscores its potential utility. Additionally, it facilitates the use of smaller mechanical pumps, significantly diminishing both the instrument's volume and power consumption. This presents a promising avenue for further miniaturization of mass spectrometers.