Systems and Methods for Operating a Quadrupole Ion Trap Mass Spectrometer using the Inverse Mathieu q Scan

With the continual search for smaller instruments and machines, there is a constant need to decrease the magnitude of multiple characteristics such as power supply, vibrations, or interference. Smaller-sized mechanisms cannot handle the same qualities used for larger sizes as the forces often misdirect the calibration of these instruments. For example, mass spectrometers, which have been reduced to table top instruments, need greater power-efficient electronics due to the calibration requirements. This is often circumnavigated by ramping the amplitude of the ion-trapping waveform while fixed frequencies are used for resonance ejection.

Researchers from Purdue University have developed a method of waveform generation suitable for miniature mass spectrometers that have lower power requirements, simpler electronics, and extended mass range for better mass calibration. This method performs a nonlinear sweeping scan on a quadrupole ion trap for the uses of ion isolation, excitation, or ejection. This method allows for greater spectrometry performance through simpler electronics and efficient spectrometry scans.

Advantages:

-Efficient waveform generation

-Simplified operations

Potential Applications:

-Mass spectrometry

-Linear ion traps

TRL: 3

Intellectual Property:

Keywords: miniature mass spectrometer, waveform generation, low power electronics, extended mass range, mass calibration, quadrupole ion trap, nonlinear sweeping scan, ion isolation, resonance ejection, efficient spectrometry scans, Algorithm, Chemical Engineering, Computer Technology, Ion Trap, Ionization, Ions, Mass Spectrometry