Ion Traps and Methods of Use Thereof

Quadrupole ion traps are used for mass analysis, especially with mass spectrometers. Current quadrupole ion traps use specific radio frequencies (RFs) to destabilize ions that react to specific frequencies and amplitudes. When ions become excited, they are easier to identify and measure in terms of a mass/charge ratio. Given the RF needs to change in order to identify different ion sizes, the electronic system requires complex components and operating procedures.

Through the use of alternating current (AC), researchers at Purdue University have identified a simpler procedure for identifying differing ions within a sample. When ACs are used to identify ions, the RF and amplitude can be maintained at constant values, which removes the need for complicated electronics and operating procedures. As the AC changes over time, the ions destabilize and become identifiable through the use of current mass spectrometry procedures. With this method, operation will be easier and measuring will be more precise.

Advantages:

-Lower cost

-Simple electronics

Potential Applications:

-Mass spectrometry

-Radio communication

-Rare cell detection

TRL: 3

Intellectual Property:

Keywords: Quadrupole ion traps, mass analysis, mass spectrometry, alternating current, AC ion identification, ion trap technology, radio frequencies, RF constant, simple electronics, rare cell detection, Chemical Engineering, Ion Trap, Mass Spectrometry, Radio Frequency