Chemical analysis of solids with sub-nm depth resolution by using a miniature LIMS system designed for in situ space research

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Riedo, Andreas; Grimaudo, Valentine; Moreno-García, Pavel; Brigitte Neuland, Maike; Tulej, Marek; Broekmann, Peter; Wurz, Peter

2015-04-01

Sensitive elemental and isotope analysis of solid samples are of considerable interest in nowadays in situ space research. For context in situ analysis, high spatial resolution is also of substantial importance. While the measurements conducted with high lateral resolution can provide compositional details of the surface of highly heterogeneous materials, depth profiling measurements yield information on compositional details of surface and subsurface. The mass spectrometric analysis with the vertical resolution at sub-µm levels is of special consideration and can deliver important information on processes, which may have modified the surface. Information on space weathering effects can be readily determined when the sample composition of the surface and sub-surface is studied with high vertical resolution. In this contribution we will present vertical depth resolution measurements conducted by our sensitive miniature laser ablation ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometer (160mm x Ø 60mm) designed for in situ space research [1-3]. The mass spectrometer is equipped with a fs-laser system (~190fs pulse width, λ = 775nm), which is used for ablation and ionization of the sample material [2]. Laser radiation is focussed on the target material to a spot size of about 10-20 µm in diameter. Mass spectrometric measurements are conducted with a mass resolution (m/Δm) of about 400-500 (at 56Fe mass peak) and with a superior dynamic range of more than eight orders of magnitude. The depth profiling performance studies were conducted on 10µm thick Cu films that were deposited by an additive-assisted electrochemical procedure on Si-wafers. The presented measurement study will show that the current instrument prototype is able to conduct quantitative chemical (elemental and isotope) analysis of solids with a vertical resolution at sub-nm level. Contaminants, incorporated by using additives (polymers containing e.g. C, N, O, S) and with layer thickness of a few nanometres, can be fully resolved [1]. The current measurement performance, including the sensitivity and the high vertical depth resolution, opens new perspectives for future applications in the laboratory, e.g. measurements of Genesis samples, and new measurement capabilities for in situ space research. References 1)V. Grimaudo, P. Moreno-García, M.B. Neuland, M. Tulej, P. Broekmann, P. Wurz and A. Riedo, "High-resolution chemical depth profiling of solid material using a miniature laser ablation/ionization mass spectrometer", Anal. Chem., 2015, submitted. 2)A. Riedo, M. Neuland, S. Meyer, M. Tulej, and P. Wurz, "Coupling of LMS with a fs-laser ablation ion source: elemental and isotope composition measurements", J. Anal. At. Spectrom., 2013, 28, 1256. 3)Tulej et al. CAMAM: A Miniature Laser Ablation Ionisation Mass Spectrometer and Microscope-Camera System for In Situ Investigation of the Composition and Morphology of Extraterrestrial Materials, Geostand. Geoanal. Res., 2014, doi: 10.1111/j.1751-908X.2014.00302.x

Volume Measurements of Laser-generated Pits for In Situ Geochronology using KArLE (Potassium-Argon Laser Experiment)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

French, R. A.; Cohen, B. A.; Miller, J. S.

2014-01-01

The Potassium-Argon Laser Experiment( KArLE), is composed of two main instruments: a spectrometer as part of the Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) method and a Mass Spectrometer (MS). The LIBS laser ablates a sample and creates a plasma cloud, generating a pit in the sample. The LIBS plasma is measured for K abundance in weight percent and the released gas is measured using the MS, which calculates Ar abundance in mols. To relate the K and Ar measurements, total mass of the ablated sample is needed but can be difficult to directly measure. Instead, density and volume are used to calculate mass, where density is calculated based on the elemental composition of the rock (from the emission spectrum) and volume is determined by pit morphology. This study aims to reduce the uncertainty for KArLE by analyzing pit volume relationships in several analog materials and comparing methods of pit volume measurements and their associated uncertainties.

Unprecedented Ionization Processes in Mass Spectrometry Provide Missing Link between ESI and MALDI.

PubMed

Trimpin, Sarah; Lee, Chuping; Weidner, Steffen M; El-Baba, Tarick J; Lutomski, Corinne A; Inutan, Ellen D; Foley, Casey D; Ni, Chi-Kung; McEwen, Charles N

2018-03-05

In the field of mass spectrometry, producing intact, highly-charged protein ions from surfaces is a conundrum with significant potential payoff in application areas ranging from biomedical to clinical research. Here, we report on the ability to form intact, highly-charged protein ions on high vacuum time-of-flight mass spectrometers in the linear and reflectron modes achievable using experimental conditions that allow effective matrix removal from both the sample surfaces and from the charged clusters formed by the laser ablation event. The charge states are the highest reported on high vacuum mass spectrometers, yet they remain at only around a third of the highest charge obtained using laser ablation with a suitable matrix at atmospheric pressure. Other than physical instrument modifications, the key to forming abundant and stable highly-charged ions appears to be the volatility of the matrix used. Cumulative results suggest mechanistic links between the ionization process reported here and traditional ionization methods of electrospray ionization and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization. © 2018 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Method for measuring lead concentrations in blood

DOEpatents

Nogar, Nicholas S.

2001-01-01

Method for measuring lead concentrations in blood. The present invention includes the use of resonant laser ablation to analyze .ltoreq.1 .mu.L (or equivalent mass) samples of blood for lead content. A typical finger prick, for example, yields about 10 .mu.L. Solid samples may also readily be analyzed by resonant laser ablation. The sample is placed on a lead-free, electrically conducting substrate and irradiated with a single, focused laser beam which simultaneously vaporizes, atomizes, and resonantly ionizes an analyte of interest in a sample. The ions are then sorted, collected and detected using a mass spectrometer.

Probing the Allende meteorite with a miniature laser-ablation mass analyser for space application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neuland, M. B.; Meyer, S.; Mezger, K.; Riedo, A.; Tulej, M.; Wurz, P.

2014-10-01

We measured the elemental composition on a sample of Allende meteorite with a miniature laser ablation mass spectrometer. This laser mass spectrometer (LMS) has been designed and built at the University of Bern in the Department of Space Research and Planetary Sciences with the objective of using such an instrument on a space mission. Utilising the meteorite Allende as the test sample in this study, it is demonstrated that the instrument allows the in situ determination of the elemental composition and thus mineralogy and petrology of untreated rocky samples, particularly on planetary surfaces. In total, 138 measurements of elemental compositions have been carried out on an Allende sample. The mass spectrometric data are evaluated and correlated with an optical image. It is demonstrated that by illustrating the measured elements in the form of mineralogical maps, LMS can serve as an element imaging instrument with a very high spatial resolution of μm scale. The detailed analysis also includes a mineralogical evaluation and an investigation of the volatile element content of Allende. All findings are in good agreement with published data and underline the high sensitivity, accuracy and capability of LMS as a mass analyser for space exploration.

Investigation of micrometre-sized fossil by laser mass spectrometer (LMS) designed for in situ space research

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tulej, Marek; Neubeck, Anna; Ivarsson, Magnus; Brigitte Neuland, Maike; Riedo, Andreas; Wurz, Peter

2015-04-01

Search for signatures of life on other planets is one of the most important goals of current planetary missions. Among various possible biomarkers, which can be investigated in situ on planetary surfaces, the detection of bio-relevant elements in planetary materials is of considerable interest and the abundance of isotopes can be important signatures of past and present bioactivities [1, 2]. We investigate the chemical composition of fossilised biological inclusions embedded in a carbonate host phase by a miniature laser ablation mass spectrometer (LMS) [3]. The LMS instrument combines a laser ablation ion source for ablation, atomisation and ionisation of surface material with a reflectron time-of-flight (TOF) mass spectrometer. LMS delivers mass spectra of almost all elements and their isotopes. In the current setup a fs-laser ablation ion source is applied with high lateral (15 um) and vertical (sub-um) resolution [4, 7] and the mass analyser supports mass resolution of 400-500 (at 56Fe mass peak) and dynamic range of eight orders of magnitude [5, 6]. From the 200 mass spectra recorded at 200 different locations on the carbonate sample surface, five mass spectra were identified which recorded the chemical composition of inclusions; from the other mass spectra the composition of the carbonate host matrix could be determined. The microscopic inspection of the sample surface and correlation with the coordinates of the laser ablation measurements made the confirmation to the location of the inclusion [8]. For the carbonate host matrix, the mass spectrometric analysis yielded the major elements H, C, O, Na, Mg, K and Ca and the trace elements Li, B and Cl. The measurements at the inclusion locations yielded in addition, the detection of F, Si, P, S, Mn, Fe, Ni, Co and Se. For most of the major elements the isotope ratios were found to be conform to the terrestrial values within a few per mills, while for minor and trace elements the determination of isotope ratios were less accurate due to low signal to noise ratios (SNR). The isotope abundances for the lightest isotope of B, S were observed to be larger than terrestrial, which is consistent with isotope fractionation by bio-relevant processes and a salty ocean. The studies demonstrates the current performance of the miniature LMS for in situ investigation of highly heterogeneous samples and its capabilities for the identification of fossilised biological matter. References: [1] Summons et al., Astrobiology, 11, 157, 2011. [2] Wurz et al., Sol. Sys. Res. 46 408, 2012. [3] Rohner et al.,Meas. Sci. Technol., 14, 2159, 2003. [4] Riedo et al., J. Anal. Atom. Spectrom. 28, 1256, 2013. [5] Riedo et al., J. Mass Spectrom.48, 1, 2013. [6] Neuland et al., Planet. Space. Sci. 101, 196, 2014. [7] Grimaudo et al., Anal. Chem. 2014, submitted. [8] Tulej et al. Geostand. Geoanal. Res., 2014; DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-908X.2014.00302.x

A Systematic Study on the Generation of Multimetallic Lanthanide Fullerene ions by Laser Ablation Mass Spectrometry.

PubMed

Wang, Yiyun; Ma, LiFu; Mu, Lei; Ren, Juan; Kong, Xianglei

2018-06-01

Laser ablation masss spectromety has been previously proved to be a powerful tool for studying endohedro metallofullerene (EMF) ions. Our previous study showed the possiblity of forming multi-metallofullerene ions containg more than six metal atoms for La, Y and Lu. Thus, it is important to conduct a systematic study on the generation of multi-metallofullerenes and their distribuitons for all lanthanide elements. Experiments were performed on a 7.0 T Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (FT ICR) mass spectrometer. Laser ablation mass spectra were obtained by laser irradiation on mixtures of graphene and MCl 3 on a stainless steel plate, applying a 355 nm Nd: YAG laser with a typical energy of 2.5 mJ/pulse. Reaction test experiments were performed by introducing O 2 into the FT ICR cell with a pulse valve. Multi-metallofullerene ions Ce2-4C2m+, Pr2-4C2m+, Gd2-4C2m+, Nd3C2m+, Dy2-3C2m+, Tb2-7C2m+, Ho2-6C2m+ were observed in the mass spectra. For metal Sm and Eu, no multi-metallofullerene ion was observed. No reaction with O 2 was observed in the reaction experiments, verifying that these species had endohedral structures. For the observed series of multi-metallofullerene ions, tri-metallofullerene ions dominated their mass spectra. The results were further compared with previously generated EMF ions for La, Er, Tm, Yb and Lu. Endohedral lanthanide metallofullerene ions were generated by laser ablation of graphene and the corresponding metal salts MCl 3 (M = Ce, Pr, Nd, Gd, Tb, Dy and Ho) and studied with a FT ICR mass spectrometer. Typically, multi-metallofullerene ions of TbnC2m+2≤n≤780≤2m≤176, Ho6C2m+2≤n≤674≤2m≤162 were observed. The results show that the formation of multi-EMF ions containing lanthanides that have +3 and +4 oxidation states is easier than those containing +2 oxidation states in the process of laser ablation. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

On the elemental analysis of different cigarette brands using laser induced breakdown spectroscopy and laser-ablation time of flight mass spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahmed, Nasar; Umar, Zeshan A.; Ahmed, Rizwan; Aslam Baig, M.

2017-10-01

We present qualitative and quantitative analysis of the trace elements present in different brands of tobacco available in Pakistan using laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) and Laser ablation Time of Flight Mass Spectrometer (LA-TOFMS). The compositional analysis using the calibration free LIBS technique is based on the observed emission spectra of the laser produced plasma plume whereas the elemental composition analysis using LA-TOFMS is based on the mass spectra of the ions produced by laser ablation. The optical emission spectra of these samples contain spectral lines of calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, silicon, strontium, barium, lithium and aluminum with varying intensities. The corresponding mass spectra of the elements were detected in LA-TOF-MS with their composition concentration. The analysis of different brands of cigarettes demonstrates that LIBS coupled with a LA-TOF-MS is a powerful technique for the elemental analysis of the trace elements in any solid sample.

HIGH SPEED PARTICLE BEAM GENERATION: SIMPLE FOCUSING MECHANISMS. (R823980)

EPA Science Inventory

Modern chemical characterization instruments employ an aerosol inlet that transmits atmospheric aerosols to the low pressure source region of a time-of-flight mass spectrometer, where particles are ablated and ionized using high energy irradiation. The ions when analyzed in the m...

The performance and the characterization of laser ablation aerosol particle time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LAAP-ToF-MS)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gemayel, Rachel; Hellebust, Stig; Temime-Roussel, Brice; Hayeck, Nathalie; Van Elteren, Johannes T.; Wortham, Henri; Gligorovski, Sasho

2016-05-01

Hyphenated laser ablation-mass spectrometry instruments have been recognized as useful analytical tools for the detection and chemical characterization of aerosol particles. Here we describe the performances of a laser ablation aerosol particle time-of-flight mass spectrometer (LAAP-ToF-MS) which was designed for aerodynamic particle sizing using two 405 nm scattering lasers and characterization of the chemical composition of single aerosol particle via ablation/ionization by a 193 nm excimer laser and detection in a bipolar time-of-flight mass spectrometer with a mass resolving power of m/Δm > 600.

We describe a laboratory based optimization strategy for the development of an analytical methodology for characterization of atmospheric particles using the LAAP-ToF-MS instrument in combination with a particle generator, a differential mobility analyzer and an optical particle counter. We investigated the influence of particle number concentration, particle size and particle composition on the detection efficiency. The detection efficiency is a product of the scattering efficiency of the laser diodes and the ionization efficiency or hit rate of the excimer laser. The scattering efficiency was found to vary between 0.6 and 1.9 % with an average of 1.1 %; the relative standard deviation (RSD) was 17.0 %. The hit rate exhibited good repeatability with an average value of 63 % and an RSD of 18 %. In addition to laboratory tests, the LAAP-ToF-MS was used to sample ambient air during a period of 6 days at the campus of Aix-Marseille University, situated in the city center of Marseille, France. The optimized LAAP-ToF-MS methodology enables high temporal resolution measurements of the chemical composition of ambient particles, provides new insights into environmental science, and a new investigative tool for atmospheric chemistry and physics, aerosol science and health impact studies.

Relationship between LIBS Ablation and Pit Volume for Geologic Samples: Applications for in situ Absolute Geochronology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Devismes, D.; Cohen, Barbara A.

2014-01-01

In planetary sciences, in situ absolute geochronology is a scientific and engineering challenge. Currently, the age of the Martian surface can only be determined by crater density counting. However this method has significant uncertainties and needs to be calibrated with absolute ages. We are developing an instrument to acquire in situ absolute geochronology based on the K-Ar method. The protocol is based on the laser ablation of a rock by hundreds of laser pulses. Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) gives the potassium content of the ablated material and a mass spectrometer (quadrupole or ion trap) measures the quantity of 40Ar released. In order to accurately measure the quantity of released 40Ar in cases where Ar is an atmospheric constituent (e.g., Mars), the sample is first put into a chamber under high vacuum. The 40Arquantity, the concentration of K and the estimation of the ablated mass are the parameters needed to give the age of the rocks. The main uncertainties with this method are directly linked to the measures of the mass (typically some µg) and of the concentration of K by LIBS (up to 10%). Because the ablated mass is small compared to the mass of the sample, and because material is redeposited onto the sample after ablation, it is not possible to directly measure the ablated mass. Our current protocol measures the ablated volume and estimates the sample density to calculate ablated mass. The precision and accuracy of this method may be improved by using knowledge of the sample's geologic properties to predict its response to laser ablation, i.e., understanding whether natural samples have a predictable relationship between laser energy deposited and resultant ablation volume. In contrast to most previous studies of laser ablation, theoretical equations are not highly applicable. The reasons are numerous, but the most important are: a) geologic rocks are complex, polymineralic materials; b) the conditions of ablation are unusual (for example, variable vacuum pressure), and c) the ablation is made with hundreds of successive laser pulses. In this work, we aim to understand the effects that occur on LIBS spectra when a homogeneous rock or a mineral is ablated under high vacuum. Understanding these effects is important to define best practices for LIBS measurements and may lead to improved measurement (or possibly prediction) of the ablated volume. We will describe our laboratory approach and first results, and discuss its utility for situ absolute geochronology campaigns.

Synopsis of a computer program designed to interface a personal computer with the fast data acquisition system of a time-of-flight mass spectrometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bechtel, R. D.; Mateos, M. A.; Lincoln, K. A.

1988-01-01

Briefly described are the essential features of a computer program designed to interface a personal computer with the fast, digital data acquisition system of a time-of-flight mass spectrometer. The instrumentation was developed to provide a time-resolved analysis of individual vapor pulses produced by the incidence of a pulsed laser beam on an ablative material. The high repetition rate spectrometer coupled to a fast transient recorder captures complete mass spectra every 20 to 35 microsecs, thereby providing the time resolution needed for the study of this sort of transient event. The program enables the computer to record the large amount of data generated by the system in short time intervals, and it provides the operator the immediate option of presenting the spectral data in several different formats. Furthermore, the system does this with a high degree of automation, including the tasks of mass labeling the spectra and logging pertinent instrumental parameters.

LASER DESORPTION IONIZATION OF ULTRAFINE AEROSOL PARTICLES. (R823980)

EPA Science Inventory

On-line analysis of ultrafine aerosol particle in the 12 to 150 nm size range is performed by
laser desorption/ionization. Particles are size selected with a differential mobility analyzer and then
sent into a linear time-of-flight mass spectrometer where they are ablated w...

Laser ablation synthesis of arsenic-phosphide Asm Pn clusters from As-P mixtures. Laser desorption ionisation with quadrupole ion trap time-of-flight mass spectrometry: The mass spectrometer as a synthesizer.

PubMed

Kubáček, Pavel; Prokeš, Lubomír; Pamreddy, Annapurna; Peña-Méndez, Eladia María; Conde, José Elias; Alberti, Milan; Havel, Josef

2018-05-30

Only a few arsenic phosphides are known. A high potential for the generation of new compounds is offered by Laser Ablation Synthesis (LAS) and when Laser Desorption Ionization (LDI) is coupled with simultaneous Time-Of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (TOFMS), immediate identification of the clusters can be achieved. LAS was used for the generation of arsenic phosphides via laser ablation of phosphorus-arsenic mixtures while quadrupole ion trap time-of-flight mass spectrometry (QIT-TOFMS) was used to acquire the mass spectra. Many new As m P n ± clusters (479 binary and 369 mono-elemental) not yet described in the literature were generated in the gas phase and their stoichiometry determined. The likely structures for some of the observed clusters arbitrary selected (20) were computed by density functional theory (DFT) optimization. LAS is an advantageous approach for the generation of new As m P n clusters, while mass spectrometry was found to be an efficient technique for the determination of cluster stoichiometry. The results achieved might inspire the synthesis of new materials. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Silver/oxygen depth profile in coins by using laser ablation, mass quadrupole spectrometer and X-rays fluorescence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cutroneo, M.; Torrisi, L.; Caridi, F.; Sayed, R.; Gentile, C.; Mondio, G.; Serafino, T.; Castrizio, E. D.

2013-05-01

Silver coins belonging to different historical periods were investigated to determine the Ag/O atomic ratio depth profiles. Laser ablation has been employed to remove, in high vacuum, the first superficial layers of the coins. Mass quadrupole spectrometry has been used to detect the Ag and the O atomic elements vaporized from the coin surface. The depth profile allowed to determine the thickness of the oxidation layer indicating that, in general, it is high in old coins. A complementary technique, using scanning electron microscope and the associated XRF microprobe, have been devoted to confirm the measurements of Ag/O atomic ratio measured with the laser-coupled mass spectrometry. The oxidation layer thicknesses range between about 25 and 250 microns.

Laser ionization time of flight mass spectrometer for isotope mass detection and elemental analysis of materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahmed, Nasar; Ahmed, Rizwan; Umar, Z. A.; Aslam Baig, M.

2017-08-01

In this paper we present the construction and modification of a linear time-of-flight mass spectrometer to improve its mass resolution. This system consists of a laser ablation/ionization section based on a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser (532 nm, 500 mJ, 5 ns pulse duration) integrated with a one meter linear time-of-flight mass spectrometer coupled with an electric sector and a magnetic lens and outfitted with a channeltron electron multiplier for ion detection. The resolution of the system has been improved by optimizing the accelerating potential and inserting a magnetic lens after the extraction region. The isotopes of lithium, lead and cadmium samples have been resolved and detected in accordance with their natural abundance. The capability of the system has been further exploited to determine the elemental composition of a brass alloy, having a certified composition of zinc and copper. Our results are in excellent agreement with its certified composition. This setup is found to be extremely efficient and convenient for fast analyses of any solid sample.

Laser microprobe and resonant laser ablation for depth profile measurements of hydrogen isotope atoms contained in graphite.

PubMed

Yorozu, M; Yanagida, T; Nakajyo, T; Okada, Y; Endo, A

2001-04-20

We measured the depth profile of hydrogen atoms in graphite by laser microprobing combined with resonant laser ablation. Deuterium-implanted graphite was employed for the measurements. The sample was ablated by a tunable laser with a wavelength corresponding to the resonant wavelength of 1S-2S of deuterium with two-photon excitation. The ablated deuterium was ionized by a 2 + 1 resonant ionization process. The ions were analyzed by a time-of-flight mass spectrometer. The deuterium ions were detected clearly with the resonant ablation. The detection limit was estimated to be less than 10(16) atoms/cm(3) in our experiments. We determined the depth profile by considering the etching profile and the etching rate. The depth profile agreed well with Monte Carlo simulations to within a precision of 23 mum for the center position and 4-mum precision for distributions for three different implantation depths.

Tandem Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS), Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectroscopy (LA-ICP-MS) and/or Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (LA-ICP-OES) for the analysis of samples of geological interest

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oropeza, D.

2016-12-01

A highly innovative laser ablation sampling instrument (J200 Tandem LA - LIBS) that combines the capabilities and analytical benefits of LIBS, LA-ICP-MS and LA-ICP-OES was used for micrometer-scale, spatially-resolved, elemental analysis of a wide variety of samples of geological interest. Data collected using ablation systems consisted of nanosecond (Nd:YAG operated 266nm) and femtosecond lasers (1030 and 343nm). An ICCD LIBS detector and Quadrupole based mass spectrometer were selected for LIBS and ICP-MS detection, respectively. This tandem instrument allows simultaneous determination of major and minor elements (for example, Si, Ca, Na, and Al, and trace elements such as Li, Ce, Cr, Sr, Y, Zn, Zr among others). The research also focused on elemental mapping and calibration strategies, specifically the use of emission and mass spectra for multivariate data analysis. Partial Least Square Regression (PLSR) is shown to minimize and compensate for matrix effects in the emission and mass spectra improving quantitative analysis by LIBS and LA-ICP-MS, respectively. The study provides a benchmark to evaluate analytical results for more complex geological sample matrices.

Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer with laser ablation metal ions release detection in the human mouth

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kueerova, Hana; Dostalova, Tatjana; Prochazkova, J.

2002-06-01

Presence of more dental alloys in oral cavity often causes pathological symptoms. Due to various and multi-faced symptomatology, they tend to be a source of significant problems not only for the patient but also for the dentist. Metal ions released from alloys can cause subjective and objective symptoms in mouth. The aim of this study was detection of metal elements presence in saliva. There were 4 groups of examined persons: with intact teeth (15 individuals) with metallic restorations, pathological currents 5-30 (mu) A, multi-faced subjective symptomatology and uncharacteristic objective diagnosis (32 patients), with metallic restorations and no subjective symptoms (14 persons) and with metallic restorations, without pathological currents and with problems related to galvanism (13 patients). Presence of 14 metal elements was checked by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer with laser ablation. Nd:YAG laser detector was used. There were significant differences in content of silver, gold and mercury between persons with intact teeth and other three groups. There were no differences found between subjects with and without galvanic currents, and presence of subjective and objective symptoms.

Characterization of a Hybrid Optical Microscopy/Laser Ablation Liquid Vortex Capture/Electrospray Ionization System for Mass Spectrometry Imaging

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cahill, John F.; Kertesz, Vilmos; Van Berkel, Gary J.

Herein, a commercial optical microscope, laser microdissection instrument was coupled with an electrospray ionization mass spectrometer via a low profile liquid vortex capture probe to yield a hybrid optical microscopy/mass spectrometry imaging system. The instrument has bright-field and fluorescence microscopy capabilities in addition to a highly focused UV laser beam that is utilized for laser ablation of samples. With this system, material laser ablated from a sample using the microscope was caught by a liquid vortex capture probe and transported in solution for analysis by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. Both lane scanning and spot sampling mass spectral imaging modes weremore » used. The smallest area the system was able to ablate was ~0.544 μm × ~0.544 μm, achieved by oversampling of the smallest laser ablation spot size that could be obtained (~1.9 μm). With use of a model photoresist surface, known features as small as ~1.5 μm were resolved. The capabilities of the system with real world samples were demonstrated first with a blended polymer thin film containing poly(2-vinylpyridine) and poly(N-vinylcarbazole). Using spot sampling imaging, sub-micrometer sized features (0.62, 0.86, and 0.98 μm) visible by optical microscopy were clearly distinguished in the mass spectral images. A second real world example showed the imaging of trace amounts of cocaine in mouse brain thin tissue sections. Lastly, with use of a lane scanning mode with ~6 μm × ~6 μm data pixels, features in the tissue as small as 15 μm in size could be distinguished in both the mass spectral and optical images.« less

Characterization of a Hybrid Optical Microscopy/Laser Ablation Liquid Vortex Capture/Electrospray Ionization System for Mass Spectrometry Imaging

DOE PAGES

Cahill, John F.; Kertesz, Vilmos; Van Berkel, Gary J.

2015-10-22

Herein, a commercial optical microscope, laser microdissection instrument was coupled with an electrospray ionization mass spectrometer via a low profile liquid vortex capture probe to yield a hybrid optical microscopy/mass spectrometry imaging system. The instrument has bright-field and fluorescence microscopy capabilities in addition to a highly focused UV laser beam that is utilized for laser ablation of samples. With this system, material laser ablated from a sample using the microscope was caught by a liquid vortex capture probe and transported in solution for analysis by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. Both lane scanning and spot sampling mass spectral imaging modes weremore » used. The smallest area the system was able to ablate was ~0.544 μm × ~0.544 μm, achieved by oversampling of the smallest laser ablation spot size that could be obtained (~1.9 μm). With use of a model photoresist surface, known features as small as ~1.5 μm were resolved. The capabilities of the system with real world samples were demonstrated first with a blended polymer thin film containing poly(2-vinylpyridine) and poly(N-vinylcarbazole). Using spot sampling imaging, sub-micrometer sized features (0.62, 0.86, and 0.98 μm) visible by optical microscopy were clearly distinguished in the mass spectral images. A second real world example showed the imaging of trace amounts of cocaine in mouse brain thin tissue sections. Lastly, with use of a lane scanning mode with ~6 μm × ~6 μm data pixels, features in the tissue as small as 15 μm in size could be distinguished in both the mass spectral and optical images.« less

Rapid and high-resolution stable isotopic measurement of biogenic accretionary carbonate using an online CO2 laser ablation system: Standardization of the analytical protocol.

PubMed

Sreemany, Arpita; Bera, Melinda Kumar; Sarkar, Anindya

2017-12-30

The elaborate sampling and analytical protocol associated with conventional dual-inlet isotope ratio mass spectrometry has long hindered high-resolution climate studies from biogenic accretionary carbonates. Laser-based on-line systems, in comparison, produce rapid data, but suffer from unresolvable matrix effects. It is, therefore, necessary to resolve these matrix effects to take advantage of the automated laser-based method. Two marine bivalve shells (one aragonite and one calcite) and one fish otolith (aragonite) were first analysed using a CO 2 laser ablation system attached to a continuous flow isotope ratio mass spectrometer under different experimental conditions (different laser power, sample untreated vs vacuum roasted). The shells and the otolith were then micro-drilled and the isotopic compositions of the powders were measured in a dual-inlet isotope ratio mass spectrometer following the conventional acid digestion method. The vacuum-roasted samples (both aragonite and calcite) produced mean isotopic ratios (with a reproducibility of ±0.2 ‰ for both δ 18 O and δ 13 C values) almost identical to the values obtained using the conventional acid digestion method. As the isotopic ratio of the acid digested samples fall within the analytical precision (±0.2 ‰) of the laser ablation system, this suggests the usefulness of the method for studying the biogenic accretionary carbonate matrix. When using laser-based continuous flow isotope ratio mass spectrometry for the high-resolution isotopic measurements of biogenic carbonates, the employment of a vacuum-roasting step will reduce the matrix effect. This method will be of immense help to geologists and sclerochronologists in exploring short-term changes in climatic parameters (e.g. seasonality) in geological times. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Data Reduction of Laser Ablation Split-Stream (LASS) Analyses Using Newly Developed Features Within Iolite: With Applications to Lu-Hf + U-Pb in Detrital Zircon and Sm-Nd +U-Pb in Igneous Monazite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fisher, Christopher M.; Paton, Chad; Pearson, D. Graham; Sarkar, Chiranjeeb; Luo, Yan; Tersmette, Daniel B.; Chacko, Thomas

2017-12-01

A robust platform to view and integrate multiple data sets collected simultaneously is required to realize the utility and potential of the Laser Ablation Split-Stream (LASS) method. This capability, until now, has been unavailable and practitioners have had to laboriously process each data set separately, making it challenging to take full advantage of the benefits of LASS. We describe a new program for handling multiple mass spectrometric data sets collected simultaneously, designed specifically for the LASS technique, by which a laser aerosol is been split into two or more separate "streams" to be measured on separate mass spectrometers. New features within Iolite (https://iolite-software.com) enable the capability of loading, synchronizing, viewing, and reducing two or more data sets acquired simultaneously, as multiple DRSs (data reduction schemes) can be run concurrently. While this version of Iolite accommodates any combination of simultaneously collected mass spectrometer data, we demonstrate the utility using case studies where U-Pb and Lu-Hf isotope composition of zircon, and U-Pb and Sm-Nd isotope composition of monazite were analyzed simultaneously, in crystals showing complex isotopic zonation. These studies demonstrate the importance of being able to view and integrate simultaneously acquired data sets, especially for samples with complicated zoning and decoupled isotope systematics, in order to extract accurate and geologically meaningful isotopic and compositional data. This contribution provides instructions and examples for handling simultaneously collected laser ablation data. An instructional video is also provided. The updated Iolite software will help to fully develop the applications of both LASS and multi-instrument mass spectrometric measurement capabilities.

Laser Microdissection and Atmospheric Pressure Chemical Ionization Mass Spectrometry Coupled for Multimodal Imaging

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lorenz, Matthias; Ovchinnikova, Olga S; Kertesz, Vilmos

2013-01-01

This paper describes the coupling of ambient laser ablation surface sampling, accomplished using a laser capture microdissection system, with atmospheric pressure chemical ionization mass spectrometry for high spatial resolution multimodal imaging. A commercial laser capture microdissection system was placed in close proximity to a modified ion source of a mass spectrometer designed to allow for sampling of laser ablated material via a transfer tube directly into the ionization region. Rhodamine 6G dye of red sharpie ink in a laser etched pattern as well as cholesterol and phosphatidylcholine in a cerebellum mouse brain thin tissue section were identified and imaged frommore » full scan mass spectra. A minimal spot diameter of 8 m was achieved using the 10X microscope cutting objective with a lateral oversampling pixel resolution of about 3.7 m. Distinguishing between features approximately 13 m apart in a cerebellum mouse brain thin tissue section was demonstrated in a multimodal fashion including co-registered optical and mass spectral chemical images.« less

Transmission Geometry Laser Ablation into a Non-Contact Liquid Vortex Capture Probe for Mass Spectrometry Imaging

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ovchinnikova, Olga S; Bhandari, Deepak; Lorenz, Matthias

2014-01-01

RATIONALE: Capture of material from a laser ablation plume into a continuous flow stream of solvent provides the means for uninterrupted sampling, transport and ionization of collected material for coupling with mass spectral analysis. Reported here is the use of vertically aligned transmission geometry laser ablation in combination with a new non-contact liquid vortex capture probe coupled with electrospray ionization for spot sampling and chemical imaging with mass spectrometry. Methods: A vertically aligned continuous flow liquid vortex capture probe was positioned directly underneath a sample surface in a transmission geometry laser ablation (355 nm, 10 Hz, 7 ns pulse width)more » setup to capture into solution the ablated material. The outlet of the vortex probe was coupled to the Turbo V ion source of an AB SCIEX TripleTOF 5600+ mass spectrometer. System operation and performance metrics were tested using inked patterns and thin tissue sections. Glass slides and slides designed especially for laser capture microdissection, viz., DIRECTOR slides and PEN 1.0 (polyethylene naphthalate) membrane slides, were used as sample substrates. Results: The estimated capture efficiency of laser ablated material was 24%, which was enabled by the use of a probe with large liquid surface area (~ 2.8 mm2) and with gravity to help direct ablated material vertically down towards the probe. The swirling vortex action of the liquid surface potentially enhanced capture and dissolution of not only particulates, but also gaseous products of the laser ablation. The use of DIRECTOR slides and PEN 1.0 (polyethylene naphthalate) membrane slides as sample substrates enabled effective ablation of a wide range of sample types (basic blue 7, polypropylene glycol, insulin and cyctochrome c) without photodamage using a UV laser. Imaging resolution of about 6 m was demonstrated for stamped ink on DIRECTOR slides based on the ability to distinguish features present both in the optical and in the chemical image. This imaging resolution was 20 times better than the previous best reported results with laser ablation/liquid sample capture mass spectrometry imaging. Using thin sections of brain tissue the chemical image of a selected lipid was obtained with an estimated imaging resolution of about 50 um. Conclusions: A vertically aligned, transmission geometry laser ablation liquid vortex capture probe, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry system provides an effective means for spatially resolved spot sampling and imaging with mass spectrometry.« less

Transmission geometry laser ablation into a non-contact liquid vortex capture probe for mass spectrometry imaging.

PubMed

Ovchinnikova, Olga S; Bhandari, Deepak; Lorenz, Matthias; Van Berkel, Gary J

2014-08-15

Capture of material from a laser ablation plume into a continuous flow stream of solvent provides the means for uninterrupted sampling, transport and ionization of collected material for coupling with mass spectral analysis. Reported here is the use of vertically aligned transmission geometry laser ablation in combination with a new non-contact liquid vortex capture probe coupled with electrospray ionization for spot sampling and chemical imaging with mass spectrometry. A vertically aligned continuous flow liquid vortex capture probe was positioned directly underneath a sample surface in a transmission geometry laser ablation (355 nm, 10 Hz, 7 ns pulse width) set up to capture into solution the ablated material. The outlet of the vortex probe was coupled to the Turbo V™ ion source of an AB SCIEX TripleTOF 5600+ mass spectrometer. System operation and performance metrics were tested using inked patterns and thin tissue sections. Glass slides and slides designed especially for laser capture microdissection, viz., DIRECTOR(®) slides and PEN 1.0 (polyethylene naphthalate) membrane slides, were used as sample substrates. The estimated capture efficiency of laser-ablated material was 24%, which was enabled by the use of a probe with large liquid surface area (~2.8 mm(2) ) and with gravity to help direct ablated material vertically down towards the probe. The swirling vortex action of the liquid surface potentially enhanced capture and dissolution not only of particulates, but also of gaseous products of the laser ablation. The use of DIRECTOR(®) slides and PEN 1.0 (polyethylene naphthalate) membrane slides as sample substrates enabled effective ablation of a wide range of sample types (basic blue 7, polypropylene glycol, insulin and cyctochrome c) without photodamage using a UV laser. Imaging resolution of about 6 µm was demonstrated for stamped ink on DIRECTOR(®) slides based on the ability to distinguish features present both in the optical and in the chemical image. This imaging resolution was 20 times better than the previous best reported results with laser ablation/liquid sample capture mass spectrometry imaging. Using thin sections of brain tissue the chemical image of a selected lipid was obtained with an estimated imaging resolution of about 50 µm. A vertically aligned, transmission geometry laser ablation liquid vortex capture probe, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry system provides an effective means for spatially resolved spot sampling and imaging with mass spectrometry. Published in 2014. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

Simultaneous measurement of sulfur and lead isotopes in sulfides using nanosecond laser ablation coupled with two multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuan, Honglin; Liu, Xu; Chen, Lu; Bao, Zhian; Chen, Kaiyun; Zong, Chunlei; Li, Xiao-Chun; Qiu, Johnson Wenhong

2018-04-01

We herein report the coupling of a nanosecond laser ablation system with a large-scale multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (Nu1700 MC-ICPMS, NP-1700) and a conventional Nu Plasma II MC-ICPMS (NP-II) for the simultaneous laser ablation and determination of in situ S and Pb isotopic compositions of sulfide minerals. We found that the required aerosol distribution between the two spectrometers depended on the Pb content of the sample. For example, for a sulfide containing 100-3000 ppm Pb, the aerosol was distributed between the NP-1700 and the NP-II spectrometers in a 1:1 ratio, while for lead contents >3000 and <100 ppm, these ratios were 5:1 and 1:3, respectively. In addition, S isotopic analysis showed a pronounced matrix effect, so a matrix-matched external standard was used for standard-sample bracketing correction. The NIST NBS 977 (NBS, National Bureau of Standards; NIST, National Institute of Standards & Technology) Tl (thallium) dry aerosol internal standard and the NIST SRM 610 (SRM, standard reference material) external standard were employed to obtain accurate results for the analysis of Pb isotopes. In tandem experiments where airflow conditions were similar to those employed during stand-alone analyses, small changes in the aerosol carrier gas flow did not significantly influence the accurate determination of S and Pb isotope ratios. In addition, careful optimization of the flow ratio of the aerosol carrier (He) and makeup (Ar) gases to match stand-alone analytical conditions allowed comparable S and Pb isotope ratios to be obtained within an error of 2 s analytical uncertainties. Furthermore, the results of tandem analyses obtained using our method were consistent with those of previously reported stand-alone techniques for the S and Pb isotopes of chalcopyrite, pyrite, galena, and sphalerite, thus indicating that this method is suitable for the simultaneous analysis of S and Pb isotopes of natural sulfide minerals, and provides an effective tool to determine S and Pb isotope compositions of sulfides formed through multi-stage deposition routes.

A miniaturised laser ablation/ionisation analyser for investigation of elemental/isotopic composition with the sub-ppm detection sensitivity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tulej, M.; Riedo, A.; Meyer, S.; Iakovleva, M.; Neuland, M.; Wurz, P.

2012-04-01

Detailed knowledge of the elemental and isotopic composition of solar system objects imposes critical constraints on models describing the origin of our solar system and can provide insight to chemical and physical processes taking place during the planetary evolution. So far, the investigation of chemical composition of planetary surfaces could be conducted almost exclusively by remotely controlled spectroscopic instruments from orbiting spacecraft, landers or rovers. With some exceptions, the sensitivity of these techniques is, however, limited and often only abundant elements can be investigated. Nevertheless, the spectroscopic techniques proved to be successful for global chemical mapping of entire planetary objects such as the Moon, Mars and asteroids. A combined afford of the measurements from orbit, landers and rovers can also yield the determination of local mineralogy. New instruments including Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) and Laser Ablation/Ionisation Mass Spectrometer (LIMS), have been recently included for several landed missions. LIBS is thought to improve flexibility of the investigations and offers a well localised chemical probing from distances up to 10-13 m. Since LIMS is a mass spectrometric technique it allows for very sensitive measurements of elements and isotopes. We will demonstrate the results of the current performance tests obtained by application of a miniaturised laser ablation/ionisation mass spectrometer, a LIMS instrument, developed in Bern for the chemical analysis of solids. So far, the only LIMS instrument on a spacecraft is the LAZMA instrument. This spectrometer was a part of the payload for PHOBOS-GRUNT mission and is also currently selected for LUNA-RESURCE and LUNA-GLOB missions to the lunar south poles (Managadze et al., 2011). Our LIMS instrument has the dimensions of 120 x Ø60 mm and with a weight of about 1.5 kg (all electronics included), it is the lightest mass analyser designed for in situ chemical analysis of solid materials on the planetary surfaces (Rohner et al., 2003). Initial laboratory tests that were conducted with an IR laser radiation for the ablation, atomisation and ionisation of the material, indicated a high performance of the instrument in terms of sensitivity, dynamic range and mass resolution (Tulej et al., 2011). After some technical improvements and implementation of a computer-controlled performance optimiser we have achieved further improvements of both, the instrumental sensitivity down to sub-ppm level and reproducibility of the measurements. We will demonstrate the potential of the mass analyser to perform the quantitative elemental analysis of solids with a spatial (vertical, lateral) resolution commensurate with typical grain sizes, and its capabilities for investigation of isotopic patterns with accuracy and precision comparable to that of large analytical laboratory instruments, e.g., TIMS, SIMS, LA-ICP-MS. The results can be of considerable interest for in situ dating or investigation of other fine isotopic fractionation effects including studies of bio-markers.

Laser Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry for Space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brinckerhoff, W. B.; Managadze, G. G.; McEntire, R. W.; Cheng, A. F.; Green, W. J.

2000-01-01

A miniature reflection time-of-flight mass spectrometer for in situ planetary surface analysis is described. The laser ablation mass spectrometer (LAMS) measures the regolith's elemental and isotopic composition without high-voltage source extraction or sample preparation. The compact size (< 2 x 10(exp 3) cubic cm) and low mass (approximately 2 kg) of LAMS, due to its fully coaxial design and two-stage reflectron, fall within the strict resource limitations of landed science missions to solar system bodies. A short-pulse laser focused to a spot with a diameter approximately 30-50 micrometers is used to obtain microscopic surface samples. Assisted by a microimager, LAMS can interactively select and analyze a range of compositional regions (with lateral motion) and with repeated pulses can access unweathered, subsurface materials. The mass resolution is calibrated to distinguish isotopic peaks at unit masses, and detection limits are on resolved to a few ppm. The design and calibration method of a prototype LAMS device is described, which include the development of preliminary relative sensitivity coefficients for major element bulk abundance measurements.

Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry with a twin quadrupole instrument using laser ablation sample introduction and monodisperse dried microparticulate injection

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Allen, Lloyd A.

1996-10-17

The focus of this dissertation is the use of a twin quadrupole inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS) for the simultaneous detection of two m/z values. The twin quadrupole ICP-MS is used with laser ablation sample introduction in both the steady state (10 Hz) and single pulse modes. Steady state signals are highly correlated and the majority of flicker noise cancels when the ratio is calculated. Using a copper sample, the isotope ratio 63Cu +/ 65Cu + is measured with a relative standard deviation (RSD) of 0.26%. Transient signals for single laser pulses are also obtained. Copper isotope ratio measurementsmore » for several laser pulses are measured with an RSD of 0.85%. Laser ablation (LA) is used with steel samples to assess the ability of the twin quadrupole ICP-MS to eliminate flicker noise of minor components of steel samples. Isotopic and internal standard ratios are measured in the first part of this work. The isotope ratio 52Cr +/ 53Cr + (Cr present at 1.31 %) can be measured with an RSD of 0.06 % to 0.1 %. For internal standard elements, RSDs improve from 1.9 % in the Cr + signal to 0.12% for the ratio of 51V + to 52Cr +. In the second part of this work, one mass spectrometer is scanned while the second channel measures an individual m/z value. When the ratio of these two signals is calculated, the peak shapes in the mass spectrum are improved significantly. Pulses of analyte and matrix ions from individual drops are measured simultaneously using the twin quadrupole ICP-MS with monodisperse dried microparticulate injection (MDMI). At modest Pb concentrations (500 ppm), a shoulder on the leading edge of the Li + signal becomes apparent. Space charge effects are consistent with the disturbances seen.« less

Ambient infrared laser ablation mass spectrometry (AIRLAB-MS) of live plant tissue with plume capture by continuous flow solvent probe.

PubMed

O'Brien, Jeremy T; Williams, Evan R; Holman, Hoi-Ying N

2015-03-03

A new experimental setup for spatially resolved ambient infrared laser ablation-mass spectrometry (AIRLAB-MS) that uses an infrared microscope with an infinity-corrected reflective objective and a continuous flow solvent probe coupled to a Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer is described. The efficiency of material transfer from the sample to the electrospray ionization emitter was determined using glycerol/methanol droplets containing 1 mM nicotine and is ∼50%. This transfer efficiency is significantly higher than values reported for similar techniques. Laser desorption does not induce fragmentation of biomolecules in droplets containing bradykinin, leucine enkephalin and myoglobin, but loss of the heme group from myoglobin occurs as a result of the denaturing solution used. An application of AIRLAB-MS to biological materials is demonstrated for tobacco leaves. Chemical components are identified from the spatially resolved mass spectra of the ablated plant material, including nicotine and uridine. The reproducibility of measurements made using AIRLAB-MS on plant material was demonstrated by the ablation of six closely spaced areas (within 2 × 2 mm) on a young tobacco leaf, and the results indicate a standard deviation of <10% in the uridine signal obtained for each area. The spatial distribution of nicotine was measured for selected leaf areas and variation in the relative nicotine levels (15-100%) was observed. Comparative analysis of the nicotine distribution was demonstrated for two tobacco plant varieties, a genetically modified plant and its corresponding wild-type, indicating generally higher nicotine levels in the mutant.

Trace contaminant determination in fish scale by laser-ablation technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Ida; Coutant, C. C.; Arakawa, E. T.

1993-10-01

Laser ablation on rings of fish scale has been used to analyze the historical accumulation of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) in striped bass in the Watts Bar Reservoir. Rings on a fish scale grow in a pattern that forms a record of the fish's chemical intake. In conjunction with the migration patterns of fish monitored by ecologists, relative PCB concentrations in the seasonal rings of fish scale can be used to study the PCB distribution in the reservoir. In this study, a tightly-focused laser beam from a XeCl excimer laser was used to ablate and ionize a small portion of a fish scale placed in a vacuum chamber. The ions were identified and quantified by a time-of-flight mass spectrometer. Studies of this type can provide valuable information for the Department of Energy (DOE) off-site clean-up efforts as well as identifying the impacts of other sources to local aquatic populations.

Chemical analyses of micrometre-sized solids by a miniature laser ablation/ionisation mass spectrometer (LMS)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tulej, Marek; Wiesendanger, Reto; Neuland, Maike; Meyer, Stefan; Wurz, Peter; Neubeck, Anna; Ivarsson, Magnus; Riedo, Valentine; Moreno-Garcia, Pavel; Riedo, Andreas; Knopp, Gregor

2017-04-01

Investigation of elemental and isotope compositions of planetary solids with high spatial resolution are of considerable interest to current space research. Planetary materials are typically highly heterogenous and such studies can deliver detailed chemical information of individual sample components with the sizes down to a few micrometres. The results of such investigations can yield mineralogical surface context including mineralogy of individual grains or the elemental composition of of other objects embedded in the sample surface such as micro-sized fossils. The identification of bio-relevant material can follow by the detection of bio-relevant elements and their isotope fractionation effects [1, 2]. For chemical analysis of heterogenous solid surfaces we have combined a miniature laser ablation mass spectrometer (LMS) (mass resolution (m/Dm) 400-600; dynamic range 105-108) with in situ microscope-camera system (spatial resolution ˜2um, depth 10 um). The microscope helps to find the micrometre-sized solids across the surface sample for the direct mass spectrometric analysis by the LMS instrument. The LMS instrument combines an fs-laser ion source and a miniature reflectron-type time-of-flight mass spectrometer. The mass spectrometric analysis of the selected on the sample surface objects followed after ablation, atomisation and ionisation of the sample by a focussed laser radiation (775 nm, 180 fs, 1 kHz; the spot size of ˜20 um) [4, 5, 6]. Mass spectra of almost all elements (isotopes) present in the investigated location are measured instantaneously. A number of heterogenous rock samples containing micrometre-sized fossils and mineralogical grains were investigated with high selectivity and sensitivity. Chemical analyses of filamentous structures observed in carbonate veins (in harzburgite) and amygdales in pillow basalt lava can be well characterised chemically yielding elemental and isotope composition of these objects [7, 8]. The investigation can be prepared with high selectivity since the host composition is typically readily different comparing to that of the analysed objects. In depth chemical analysis (chemical profiling) is found in particularly helpful allowing relatively easy isolation of the chemical composition of the host from the investigated objects [6]. Hence, both he chemical analysis of the environment and microstructures can be derived. Analysis of the isotope compositions can be measured with high level of confidence, nevertheless, presence of cluster of similar masses can make sometimes this analysis difficult. Based on this work, we are confident that similar studies can be conducted in situ planetary surfaces delivering important chemical context and evidences on bio-relevant processes. [1] Summons et al., Astrobiology, 11, 157, 2011. [2] Wurz et al., Sol. Sys. Res. 46, 408, 2012. [3] Riedo et al., J. Anal. Atom. Spectrom. 28, 1256, 2013. [4] Riedo et al., J. Mass Spectrom.48, 1, 2013. [5] Tulej et al., Geostand. Geoanal. Res., 38, 423, 2014. [6] Grimaudo et al., Anal. Chem. 87, 2041, 2015 [7] Tulej et al., Astrobiology, 15, 1, 2015. [8] Neubeck et al., Int. J. Astrobiology, 15, 133, 2016.

Time-of-flight mass spectrometry of mineral volatilization: Toward direct composition analysis of shocked mineral vapor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Austin, Daniel E.; Shen, Andy H. T.; Beauchamp, J. L.; Ahrens, Thomas J.

2012-04-01

We have developed an orthogonal-acceleration time-of-flight mass spectrometer to study the volatiles produced when a mineral's shock-compressed state is isentropically released, as occurs when a shock wave, driven into the mineral by an impact, reflects upon reaching a free surface. The instrument is designed to use a gun or explosive-launched projectile as the source of the shock wave, impact onto a flange separating a poor vacuum and the high vacuum (10-7 Torr) interior of the mass spectrometer, and transmission of the shock wave through the flange to a mineral sample mounted on the high-vacuum side of the flange. The device extracts and analyzes the neutrals and ions produced from the shocked mineral prior to the possible occurrence of collateral instrument damage from the shock-inducing impact. The instrument has been tested using laser ablation of various mineral surfaces, and the resulting spectra are presented. Mass spectra are compared with theoretical distributions of molecular species, and with expected distributions from laser desorption.

Quantitative measurement of the chemical composition of geological standards with a miniature laser ablation/ionization mass spectrometer designed for in situ application in space research

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neuland, M. B.; Grimaudo, V.; Mezger, K.; Moreno-García, P.; Riedo, A.; Tulej, M.; Wurz, P.

2016-03-01

A key interest of planetary space missions is the quantitative determination of the chemical composition of the planetary surface material. The chemical composition of surface material (minerals, rocks, soils) yields fundamental information that can be used to answer key scientific questions about the formation and evolution of the planetary body in particular and the Solar System in general. We present a miniature time-of-flight type laser ablation/ionization mass spectrometer (LMS) and demonstrate its capability in measuring the elemental and mineralogical composition of planetary surface samples quantitatively by using a femtosecond laser for ablation/ionization. The small size and weight of the LMS make it a remarkable tool for in situ chemical composition measurements in space research, convenient for operation on a lander or rover exploring a planetary surface. In the laboratory, we measured the chemical composition of four geological standard reference samples USGS AGV-2 Andesite, USGS SCo-l Cody Shale, NIST 97b Flint Clay and USGS QLO-1 Quartz Latite with LMS. These standard samples are used to determine the sensitivity factors of the instrument. One important result is that all sensitivity factors are close to 1. Additionally, it is observed that the sensitivity factor of an element depends on its electron configuration, hence on the electron work function and the elemental group in agreement with existing theory. Furthermore, the conformity of the sensitivity factors is supported by mineralogical analyses of the USGS SCo-l and the NIST 97b samples. With the four different reference samples, the consistency of the calibration factors can be demonstrated, which constitutes the fundamental basis for a standard-less measurement-technique for in situ quantitative chemical composition measurements on planetary surface.

Novel two-step laser ablation and ionization mass spectrometry (2S-LAIMS) of actor-spectator ice layers: Probing chemical composition of D{sub 2}O ice beneath a H{sub 2}O ice layer

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yang, Rui, E-mail: ryang73@ustc.edu; Gudipati, Murthy S., E-mail: gudipati@jpl.nasa.gov

2014-03-14

In this work, we report for the first time successful analysis of organic aromatic analytes imbedded in D{sub 2}O ices by novel infrared (IR) laser ablation of a layered non-absorbing D{sub 2}O ice (spectator) containing the analytes and an ablation-active IR-absorbing H{sub 2}O ice layer (actor) without the analyte. With these studies we have opened up a new method for the in situ analysis of solids containing analytes when covered with an IR laser-absorbing layer that can be resonantly ablated. This soft ejection method takes advantage of the tenability of two-step infrared laser ablation and ultraviolet laser ionization mass spectrometry,more » previously demonstrated in this lab to study chemical reactions of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in cryogenic ices. The IR laser pulse tuned to resonantly excite only the upper H{sub 2}O ice layer (actor) generates a shockwave upon impact. This shockwave penetrates the lower analyte-containing D{sub 2}O ice layer (spectator, a non-absorbing ice that cannot be ablated directly with the wavelength of the IR laser employed) and is reflected back, ejecting the contents of the D{sub 2}O layer into the vacuum where they are intersected by a UV laser for ionization and detection by a time-of-flight mass spectrometer. Thus, energy is transmitted from the laser-absorbing actor layer into the non-absorbing spectator layer resulting its ablation. We found that isotope cross-contamination between layers was negligible. We also did not see any evidence for thermal or collisional chemistry of PAH molecules with H{sub 2}O molecules in the shockwave. We call this “shockwave mediated surface resonance enhanced subsurface ablation” technique as “two-step laser ablation and ionization mass spectrometry of actor-spectator ice layers.” This method has its roots in the well-established MALDI (matrix assisted laser desorption and ionization) method. Our method offers more flexibility to optimize both the processes—ablation and ionization. This new technique can thus be potentially employed to undertake in situ analysis of materials imbedded in diverse media, such as cryogenic ices, biological samples, tissues, minerals, etc., by covered with an IR-absorbing laser ablation medium and study the chemical composition and reaction pathways of the analyte in its natural surroundings.« less

Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and laser ablation ICP-MS for isotope analysis of long-lived radionuclides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Becker, J. Sabine

2005-04-01

For a few years now inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry has been increasingly used for precise and accurate determination of isotope ratios of long-lived radionuclides at the trace and ultratrace level due to its excellent sensitivity, good precision and accuracy. At present, ICP-MS and also laser ablation ICP-MS are applied as powerful analytical techniques in different fields such as the characterization of nuclear materials, recycled and by-products (e.g., spent nuclear fuel or depleted uranium ammunitions), radioactive waste control, in environmental monitoring and in bioassay measurements, in health control, in geochemistry and geochronology. Especially double-focusing sector field ICP mass spectrometers with single ion detector or with multiple ion collector device have been used for the precise determination of long-lived radionuclides isotope ratios at very low concentration levels. Progress has been achieved by the combination of ultrasensitive mass spectrometric techniques with effective separation and enrichment procedures in order to improve detection limits or by the introduction of the collision cell in ICP-MS for reducing disturbing interfering ions (e.g., of 129Xe+ for the determination of 129I). This review describes the state of the art and the progress of ICP-MS and laser ablation ICP-MS for isotope ratio measurements of long-lived radionuclides in different sample types, especially in the main application fields of characterization of nuclear and radioactive waste material, environmental research and health controls.

Depth-resolved sample composition analysis using laser-induced ablation-quadrupole mass spectrometry and laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oelmann, J.; Gierse, N.; Li, C.; Brezinsek, S.; Zlobinski, M.; Turan, B.; Haas, S.; Linsmeier, Ch.

2018-06-01

Monitoring a sample's material composition became more and more important over the last years for both - industrial process control as well as for post mortem analysis in research and industrial development. Although material composition identification as well as a comparison with standard samples works fine, there is a lack of diagnostics which can provide quantitative information with depth resolution without any standard samples. We present a novel method utilizing a residual gas analysis with quadrupole mass spectrometry after picosecond laser-induced ablation and release of volatile species. In the present experiment, well characterized multilayer thin film solar cells (μc-Si:H and a-Si:D as p-i-n-junctions on ZnO:Al electrodes) are used as a set of well characterized material samples to demonstrate the capabilities of the new method. The linearity of the spectrometer signal to gas pressure simplifies its calibration and reduces its uncertainties in comparison with other analysis techniques, although high vacuum conditions (10-6 hPa to 10-7 hPa) are required to reach high sensitivity better than the percent-range. Moreover, the laser-ablation based sample analysis requires no preparation of the sample and is flexible regarding ablation rates. The application of a picosecond laser pulse ensures that the thermal penetration depth of the laser is in the same order of magnitude as the ablation rate, which enables to achieve depth resolutions in the order of 100 nm and avoids matrix mixing effects at the edge of the laser-induced crater in the sample.

Mass spectrometry imaging under ambient conditions.

PubMed

Wu, Chunping; Dill, Allison L; Eberlin, Livia S; Cooks, R Graham; Ifa, Demian R

2013-01-01

Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) has emerged as an important tool in the last decade and it is beginning to show potential to provide new information in many fields owing to its unique ability to acquire molecularly specific images and to provide multiplexed information, without the need for labeling or staining. In MSI, the chemical identity of molecules present on a surface is investigated as a function of spatial distribution. In addition to now standard methods involving MSI in vacuum, recently developed ambient ionization techniques allow MSI to be performed under atmospheric pressure on untreated samples outside the mass spectrometer. Here we review recent developments and applications of MSI emphasizing the ambient ionization techniques of desorption electrospray ionization (DESI), laser ablation electrospray ionization (LAESI), probe electrospray ionization (PESI), desorption atmospheric pressure photoionization (DAPPI), femtosecond laser desorption ionization (fs-LDI), laser electrospray mass spectrometry (LEMS), infrared laser ablation metastable-induced chemical ionization (IR-LAMICI), liquid microjunction surface sampling probe mass spectrometry (LMJ-SSP MS), nanospray desorption electrospray ionization (nano-DESI), and plasma sources such as the low temperature plasma (LTP) probe and laser ablation coupled to flowing atmospheric-pressure afterglow (LA-FAPA). Included are discussions of some of the features of ambient MSI for example the ability to implement chemical reactions with the goal of providing high abundance ions characteristic of specific compounds of interest and the use of tandem mass spectrometry to either map the distribution of targeted molecules with high specificity or to provide additional MS information on the structural identification of compounds. We also describe the role of bioinformatics in acquiring and interpreting the chemical and spatial information obtained through MSI, especially in biological applications for tissue diagnostic purposes. Finally, we discuss the challenges in ambient MSI and include perspectives on the future of the field. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Mass Spectrometry Imaging under Ambient Conditions

PubMed Central

Wu, Chunping; Dill, Allison L.; Eberlin, Livia S.; Cooks, R. Graham; Ifa, Demian R.

2012-01-01

Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) has emerged as an important tool in the last decade and it is beginning to show potential to provide new information in many fields owing to its unique ability to acquire molecularly specific images and to provide multiplexed information, without the need for labeling or staining. In MSI, the chemical identity of molecules present on a surface is investigated as a function of spatial distribution. In addition to now standard methods involving MSI in vacuum, recently developed ambient ionization techniques allow MSI to be performed under atmospheric pressure on untreated samples outside the mass spectrometer. Here we review recent developments and applications of MSI emphasizing the ambient ionization techniques of desorption electrospray ionization (DESI), laser ablation electrospray ionization (LAESI), probe electrospray ionization (PESI), desorption atmospheric pressure photoionization (DAPPI), femtosecond laser desorption ionization (fs-LDI), laser electrospray mass spectrometry (LEMS), infrared laser ablation metastable-induced chemical ionization (IR-LAMICI), liquid microjunction surface sampling probe mass spectrometry (LMJ-SSP MS), nanospray desorption electrospray ionization (nano-DESI), and plasma sources such as the low temperature plasma (LTP) probe and laser ablation coupled to flowing atmospheric-pressure afterglow (LA-FAPA). Included are discussions of some of the features of ambient MSI including the ability to implement chemical reactions with the goal of providing high abundance ions characteristic of specific compounds of interest and the use of tandem mass spectrometry to either map the distribution of targeted molecules with high specificity or to provide additional MS information in the structural identification of compounds. We also describe the role of bioinformatics in acquiring and interpreting the chemical and spatial information obtained through MSI, especially in biological applications for tissue diagnostic purposes. Finally, we discuss the challenges in ambient MSI and include perspectives on the future of the field. PMID:22996621

Updates of the KArLE Experiment: New Libs Calibration Under High Vacuum for the Quantification of Potassium in Basalt for In Situ Geochronology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Devismes, D.; Cohen, B. A.; Li, Z.-H.; Miller, J. S.

2014-01-01

In planetary exploration, in situ absolute geochronology is one of the main important measurements that needs to be accomplished. Until now, on Mars, the age of the surface is only determined by crater density counting, which gives relative ages. These ages can have a lot of uncertainty as they depend on many parameters. More than that, the curves must be ties to absolute ages. Thus far, only the lost lander Beagle 2 was designed to conduct absolute geochronology measurements, though some recent attempts using MSL Curiosity show that this investigation is feasible and should be strongly encouraged for future flight. Experimental: The Potassium (K)-Argon Laser Experiment (KArLE) is being developed at MSFC through the NASA Planetary Instrument Definition and Development Program (PIDDP). The goal of this experiment is to provide in situ geochronology based on the K-Ar method. A laser ablates a rock under high vacuum, creating a plasma which is sensed by an optical spectrometer to do Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS). The ablated material frees gases, including radiogenic 40Ar,which is measured by a mass spectrometer (MS). As the potassium is a content and the 40Ar is a quantity, the ablated mass needed in order to relate them. The mass is given by the product of the ablated volume by the density of this material. So we determine the mineralogy of the ablated material with the LIBS spectra and images and calculate its density. The volume of the pit is measured by using microscopy. LIBS measurement of K under high vacuum: Three independant projects [1, 2, 3] including KArLE, are developing geochronological instruments based on this LA-LIBS-MS method. Despite several differences in their setup, all of them have validated the methods with analyses and ages. However, they all described difficulties with the LIBS measurements of K [3,4]. At ambient pressure, the quantification of K by LIBS on geological materials can be accurate [5]. However the protocol of the LA-LIBS-MS experiment required hundreds of shots under high vacuum in order to free enough 40Ar* to be measured by the QMS. This long duration of ablation may induces significant changes in the LIBS spectra. The pressure may increases by orders of magnitudewithin the chamber and the laser pit geometry can change the effectiveness of ablation and intensity of plasma light received. These effects introduce variation between the first and last spectra and so the quantification of K is more complex. The ablation of one crater can give, depending on the protocol of acquisition, from tens to hundreds of spectra. Protocol and results: We are in the process of further characterizing the variation introduced into LIBS spectra by the use of hundreds of laser shots, and definining a protocol that can be used to ensure accuracy and reporoducibility in the results.We are using natural rock powder standards fused in a furnace, as well as mars analog samples with known K content. We will show the result of the calibration and some new statistical approaches in order to apprehend the effects of the long time ablation on rocks under high vacuum.

Real-time detection method and system for identifying individual aerosol particles

DOEpatents

Gard, Eric E [San Francisco, CA; Coffee, Keith R [Patterson, CA; Frank, Matthias [Oakland, CA; Tobias, Herbert J [Kensington, CA; Fergenson, David P [Alamo, CA; Madden, Norm [Livermore, CA; Riot, Vincent J [Berkeley, CA; Steele, Paul T [Livermore, CA; Woods, Bruce W [Livermore, CA

2007-08-21

An improved method and system of identifying individual aerosol particles in real time. Sample aerosol particles are collimated, tracked, and screened to determine which ones qualify for mass spectrometric analysis based on predetermined qualification or selection criteria. Screening techniques include one or more of determining particle size, shape, symmetry, and fluorescence. Only qualifying particles passing all screening criteria are subject to desorption/ionization and single particle mass spectrometry to produce corresponding test spectra, which is used to determine the identities of each of the qualifying aerosol particles by comparing the test spectra against predetermined spectra for known particle types. In this manner, activation cycling of a particle ablation laser of a single particle mass spectrometer is reduced.

Laser ablation aerosol particle time-of-flight mass spectrometer (LAAPTOF): performance, reference spectra and classification of atmospheric samples

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shen, Xiaoli; Ramisetty, Ramakrishna; Mohr, Claudia; Huang, Wei; Leisner, Thomas; Saathoff, Harald

2018-04-01

The laser ablation aerosol particle time-of-flight mass spectrometer (LAAPTOF, AeroMegt GmbH) is able to identify the chemical composition and mixing state of individual aerosol particles, and thus is a tool for elucidating their impacts on human health, visibility, ecosystem, and climate. The overall detection efficiency (ODE) of the instrument we use was determined to range from ˜ (0.01 ± 0.01) to ˜ (4.23 ± 2.36) % for polystyrene latex (PSL) in the size range of 200 to 2000 nm, ˜ (0.44 ± 0.19) to ˜ (6.57 ± 2.38) % for ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3), and ˜ (0.14 ± 0.02) to ˜ (1.46 ± 0.08) % for sodium chloride (NaCl) particles in the size range of 300 to 1000 nm. Reference mass spectra of 32 different particle types relevant for atmospheric aerosol (e.g. pure compounds NH4NO3, K2SO4, NaCl, oxalic acid, pinic acid, and pinonic acid; internal mixtures of e.g. salts, secondary organic aerosol, and metallic core-organic shell particles; more complex particles such as soot and dust particles) were determined. Our results show that internally mixed aerosol particles can result in spectra with new clusters of ions, rather than simply a combination of the spectra from the single components. An exemplary 1-day ambient data set was analysed by both classical fuzzy clustering and a reference-spectra-based classification method. Resulting identified particle types were generally well correlated. We show how a combination of both methods can greatly improve the interpretation of single-particle data in field measurements.

In Situ Measurements of Meteoric Ions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grebowsky, Joseph M.; Aiken, Arthur C.; Einaudi, Franco (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

Extraterrestrial material is the source of metal ions in the Earth's atmosphere, Each year approx. 10(exp 8) kg of material is intercepted by the Earth. The origin of this material is predominantly solar orbiting interplanetary debris from comets or asteroids that crosses the Earth's orbit. It contains a very small amount of interstellar material. On occasion the Earth passes through enhanced amounts of debris associated with the orbit of a decaying comet. This leads to enhanced meteor shower displays for up to several days. The number flux of shower material is typically several times the average sporadic background influx of material. Meteoric material is some of the earliest material formed in the solar system. By studying the relative elemental abundances of atmospheric metal ions, information can be gained on the chemical composition of cometary debris and the chemical makeup of the early solar system. Using in situ sampling with rocket-borne ion mass spectrometers; there have been approximately 50 flights that made measurements of the metal ion abundances at attitudes between 80 and 130 km. It is this altitude range where incoming meteoric particles am ablated, the larger ones giving rise to visible meteor. displays. In several rocket measurements isotopic ratios of different atomic ion mass components and metal molecular ion concentrations have been determined and used to identify unambiguously the measured species and to investigate the processes controlling the metal ion distributions The composition of the Earth's ionosphere was first sampled by an ion mass spectrometer flown an a rocket in 1956. In 1958 a rocket-borne ion spectrometer identified, fbr the first time, a layer of metal ions near 95 km. These data were interpreted as evidence of an extraterrestrial rather than a terrestrial source. Istomin predicted: "It seems probable that with some improvement in the method that analysis of the ion composition in the E-region may be used for determining the chemical composition of those meteors which do not reach the ground. Particularly, we hope to get information about the composition difference between particles of different meteor showers and also sporadic and shower meteoroids". These visions categorized the aims of many subsequent rocket-borne ion mass spectrometer experiments in the lower ionosphere, Although the use such measurements to deduce the composition of different classes of meteoroids has not been successful, the past four decades of rocket observations have provided po%erful sets of data for advancing our understanding of meteor ablation, meteoric composition, metal neutral and ion chemistry as well as ionospheric dynamics.

Mg/Ca ratios of the benthic foraminifera Oridorsalis umbonatus obtained by laser ablation from core top sediments: Relationship to bottom water temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rathmann, SöHnke; Hess, Silvia; Kuhnert, Henning; Mulitza, Stefan

2004-12-01

A laser ablation system connected to an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer was used to determine Mg/Ca ratios of the benthic foraminifera Oridorsalis umbonatus. A set of modern core top samples collected along a depth transect on the continental slope off Namibia (320-2300 m water depth; 2.9° to 10.4°C) was used to calibrate the Mg/Ca ratio against bottom water temperature. The resulting Mg/Ca-bottom water temperature relationship of O. umbonatus is described by the exponential equation Mg/Ca = 1.528*e0.09*BWT. The temperature sensitivity of this equation is similar to previously published calibrations based on Cibicidoides species, suggesting that the Mg/Ca ratio of O. umbonatus is a valuable proxy for thermocline and deep water temperature.

Rb‐Sr resonance ionization geochronology of the Duluth Gabbro: A proof of concept for in situ dating on the Moon

PubMed Central

Levine, Jonathan; Whitaker, Tom J.

2015-01-01

Rationale We report new 87Rb‐87Sr isochron data for the Duluth Gabbro, obtained with a laser ablation resonance ionization mass spectrometer that is a prototype spaceflight instrument. The gabbro has a Rb abundance and a range of Rb/Sr ratios that are similar to those of KREEP‐rich basalts found on the nearside of the Moon. Dating of previously un‐sampled young lunar basalts, which generally have a KREEP‐rich composition, is critical for understanding the bombardment history of the Moon since 3.5 Ga, which in turn informs the chronology of the solar system. Measurements of lunar analogs like the Duluth Gabbro are a proof of concept for in situ dating of rocks on the Moon to constrain lunar history. Methods Using the laser ablation resonance ionization mass spectrometer we ablated hundreds of locations on a sample, and at each one measured the relative abundances of the isotopes of Rb and Sr. A delay between the resonant photoionization processes separates the elements in time, eliminating the potential interference between 87Rb and 87Sr. This enables the determination of 87Rb‐87Sr isochron ages without sophisticated sample preparation that would be impractical in a spaceflight context. Results We successfully dated the Duluth Gabbro to 800 ± 300 Ma using traditional isochron methods like those used in our earlier analysis of the Martian meteorite Zagami. However, we were able to improve this to 1100 ± 200 Ma, an accuracy of <1σ, using a novel normalization approach. Both these results agree with the age determined by Faure et al. in 1969, but our novel normalization improves our precision. Conclusions Demonstrating that this technique can be used for measurements at this level of difficulty makes ~32% of the lunar nearside amenable to in situ dating, which can complement or supplement a sample return program. Given these results and the scientific value of dating young lunar basalts, we have recently proposed a spaceflight mission called the Moon Age and Regolith Explorer (MARE). © 2015 The Authors and Southwest Research Institute. Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd. PMID:26212160

Advanced capabilities for in situ planetary mass spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arevalo, R. D., Jr.; Mahaffy, P. R.; Brinckerhoff, W. B.; Getty, S.; Benna, M.; van Amerom, F. H. W.; Danell, R.; Pinnick, V. T.; Li, X.; Grubisic, A.; Cornish, T.; Hovmand, L.

2015-12-01

NASA GSFC has delivered highly capable quadrupole mass spectrometers (QMS) for missions to Venus (Pioneer Venus), Jupiter (Galileo), Saturn/Titan (Cassini-Huygens), Mars (MSL and MAVEN), and the Moon (LADEE). Our understanding of the Solar System has been expanded significantly by these exceedingly versatile yet low risk and cost efficient instruments. GSFC has developed more recently a suite of advanced instrument technologies promising enhanced science return while selectively leveraging heritage designs. Relying on a traditional precision QMS, the Analysis of Gas Evolved from Samples (AGES) instrument measures organic inventory, determines exposure age and establishes the absolute timing of deposition/petrogenesis of interrogated samples. The Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer (MOMA) aboard the ExoMars 2018 rover employs a two-dimensional ion trap, built analogously to heritage QMS rod assemblies, which can support dual ionization sources, selective ion enrichment and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS). The same miniaturized analyzer serves as the core of the Linear Ion Trap Mass Spectrometer (LITMS) instrument, which offers negative ion detection (switchable polarity) and an extended mass range (>2000 Da). Time-of-flight mass spectrometers (TOF-MS) have been interfaced to a range of laser sources to progress high-sensitivity laser ablation and desorption methods for analysis of inorganic and non-volatile organic compounds, respectively. The L2MS (two-step laser mass spectrometer) enables the desorption of neutrals and/or prompt ionization at IR (1.0 up to 3.1 µm, with an option for tunability) or UV wavelengths (commonly 266 or 355 nm). For the selective ionization of specific classes of organics, such as aromatic hydrocarbons, a second UV laser may be employed to decouple the desorption and ionization steps and limit molecular fragmentation. Mass analyzers with substantially higher resolving powers (up to m/Δm > 100,000), such as the Advanced Resolution Organic Molecule Analyzer (AROMA) and multipass QMS instruments now under development, offer the potential to disambiguate key chemical signatures in complex mass spectra. Other innovative technologies being pursued include: ion inlet systems; tunable lasers; high-temp pyrolysis ovens; and, sample capture/enrichment techniques.

Applications and results of X-ray spectroscopy in implosion experiments on the National Ignition Facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Epstein, R.; Regan, S. P.; Hammel, B. A.; Suter, L. J.; Scott, H. A.; Barrios, M. A.; Bradley, D. K.; Callahan, D. A.; Cerjan, C.; Collins, G. W.; Dixit, S. N.; Döppner, T.; Edwards, M. J.; Farley, D. R.; Fournier, K. B.; Glenn, S.; Glenzer, S. H.; Golovkin, I. E.; Hamza, A.; Hicks, D. G.; Izumi, N.; Jones, O. S.; Key, M. H.; Kilkenny, J. D.; Kline, J. L.; Kyrala, G. A.; Landen, O. L.; Ma, T.; MacFarlane, J. J.; Mackinnon, A. J.; Mancini, R. C.; McCrory, R. L.; Meyerhofer, D. D.; Meezan, N. B.; Nikroo, A.; Park, H.-S.; Patel, P. K.; Ralph, J. E.; Remington, B. A.; Sangster, T. C.; Smalyuk, V. A.; Springer, P. T.; Town, R. P. J.; Tucker, J. L.

2017-03-01

Current inertial confinement fusion experiments on the National Ignition Facility (NIF) [G. H. Miller, E. I. Moses, and C. R. Wuest, Opt. Eng. 43, 2841 (2004)] are attempting to demonstrate thermonuclear ignition using x-ray drive by imploding spherical targets containing hydrogen-isotope fuel in the form of a thin cryogenic layer surrounding a central volume of fuel vapor [J. Lindl, Phys. Plasmas 2, 3933 (1995)]. The fuel is contained within a plastic ablator layer with small concentrations of one or more mid-Z elements, e.g., Ge or Cu. The capsule implodes, driven by intense x-ray emission from the inner surface of a hohlraum enclosure irradiated by the NIF laser, and fusion reactions occur in the central hot spot near the time of peak compression. Ignition will occur if the hot spot within the compressed fuel layer attains a high-enough areal density to retain enough of the reaction product energy to reach nuclear reaction temperatures within the inertial hydrodynamic disassembly time of the fuel mass [J. Lindl, Phys. Plasmas 2, 3933 (1995)]. The primary purpose of the ablator dopants is to shield the ablator surface adjacent to the DT ice from heating by the hohlraum x-ray drive [S. W. Haan et al., Phys. Plasmas 18, 051001 (2011)]. Simulations predicted that these dopants would produce characteristic K-shell emission if ablator material mixed into the hot spot [B. A. Hammel et al., High Energy Density Phys. 6, 171 (2010)]. In NIF ignition experiments, emission and absorption features from these dopants appear in x-ray spectra measured with the hot-spot x-ray spectrometer in Supersnout II [S. P. Regan et al., "Hot-Spot X-Ray Spectrometer for the National Ignition Facility," to be submitted to Review of Scientific Instruments]. These include K-shell emission lines from the hot spot (driven primarily by inner-shell collisional ionization and dielectronic recombination) and photoionization edges, fluorescence, and absorption lines caused by the absorption of the hot-spot continuum in the shell. These features provide diagnostics of the central hot spot and the compressed shell, plus a measure of the shell mass that has mixed into the hot spot [S. P. Regan et al., Phys. Plasmas 19, 056307 (2012)] and evidence locating the origin of the mixed shell mass in the imploding ablator [S. P. Regan et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 111, 045001 (2013)]. Spectra are analyzed and interpreted using detailed atomic models (including radiation-transport effects) to determine the characteristic temperatures, densities, and sizes of the emitting regions. A mix diagnostic based on enhanced continuum x-ray production, relative to neutron yield, provides sensitivity to the undoped shell material mixed into the hot spot [T. Ma et al., Phys. Rev. Lett., 111, 085004 (2013)]. Together, these mix-mass measurements confirm that mix is a serious impediment to ignition. The spectroscopy and atomic physics of shell dopants have become essential in confronting this impediment and will be described.

A B-TOF mass spectrometer for the analysis of ions with extreme high start-up energies.

PubMed

Lezius, M

2002-03-01

Weak magnetic deflection is combined with two acceleration stage time-of-flight mass spectrometry and subsequent position-sensitive ion detection. The experimental method, called B-TOF mass spectrometry, is described with respect to its theoretical background and some experimental results. It is demonstrated that the technique has distinct advantages over other approaches, with special respect to the identification and analysis of very highly energetic ions with an initially large energy broadening (up to 1 MeV) and with high charge states (up to 30+). Similar energetic targets are a common case in intense laser-matter interaction processes found during laser ablation, laser-cluster and laser-molecule interaction and fast particle and x-ray generation from laser-heated plasma. Copyright 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Analysis of rare earth elements in coal fly ash using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and scanning electron microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thompson, Robert L.; Bank, Tracy; Montross, Scott; Roth, Elliot; Howard, Bret; Verba, Circe; Granite, Evan

2018-05-01

Reference standard NIST SRM 1633b and FA 345, a fly ash sample from an eastern U.S. coal power plant, were analyzed to determine and quantify the mineralogical association of rare earth elements (REE). These analyses were completed using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) and a scanning electron microscope, equipped with an energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometer (SEM-EDS). Internal standardization was avoided by quantifying elemental concentrations by normalizing to 100% oxides. Mineral grains containing elevated REE concentrations were found in diverse chemical environments, but were most commonly found in regions where Al and Si were predominant. Dividing the spot analyses into time segments yielded plots that showed the REE content changing over time as individual mineral grains were being ablated. SEM-EDS images of FA 345 confirmed the trends that were found in the LA-ICP-MS results. Small grains of apatite, monazite, or zircon were frequently observed as free mineral grains or embedded in amorphous aluminosilicate glass and were not associated with ferrous particles. This finding is consistent with previous reports that magnetic enrichment may be an effective way of concentrating non-magnetic REE phases. Furthermore, aggressive mechanical and chemical-based separation schemes will be required to separate and recover REE from aluminosilicate glass.

Use of a compact fiber optic spectrometer for spectral feedback during the laser ablation of dental hard tissues and restorative materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, Joyce Y.; Fan, Kenneth; Fried, Daniel

2006-02-01

One perceived disadvantage of caries removal using lasers is the loss of the tactile feedback associated with the handpiece. However, alternative methods of acoustic and optical feedback become available with the laser that can be exploited to provide information about the chemical composition of the material ablated, the ablation efficiency and rate, the depth of the incision, and the surface and plume temperature during ablation. Such information can be used to increase the selectivity of ablation, avoid peripheral thermal damage and excessive heat deposition in the tooth, and provide a mechanism of robotic automation. The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that a compact fiberoptic spectrometer could be used to differentiate between the ablation of sound and carious enamel and dentin and between dental hard tissues and composite. Sound and carious tooth surfaces along with composite restorative materials were scanned with λ=0.355, 2.79 and 9.3 μm laser pulses at irradiation intensities ranging from 0.5-100 J/cm2 and spectra were acquired from λ=250-900-nm using a compact fiber-optic spectrometer. Emission spectra varied markedly with the laser wavelength and pulse duration. Optical feedback was not successful in differentiating between sound and carious enamel and dentin even with the addition of various chromophores to carious lesion areas. However, the spectral feedback was successfully used to differentiate between composites and sound enamel and dentin enabling the selective removal of composite from tooth surfaces using a computer controlled λ=9.3-μm pulsed CO II laser and scanning system.

In situ location and U-Pb dating of small zircon grains in igneous rocks using laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-quadrupole mass spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sack, Patrick J.; Berry, Ron F.; Meffre, Sebastien; Falloon, Trevor J.; Gemmell, J. Bruce; Friedman, Richard M.

2011-05-01

A new U-Pb zircon dating protocol for small (10-50 μm) zircons has been developed using an automated searching method to locate zircon grains in a polished rock mount. The scanning electron microscope-energy-dispersive X ray spectrum-based automated searching method can routinely find in situ zircon grains larger than 5 μm across. A selection of these grains was ablated using a 10 μm laser spot and analyzed in an inductively coupled plasma-quadrupole mass spectrometer (ICP-QMS). The technique has lower precision (˜6% uncertainty at 95% confidence on individual spot analyses) than typical laser ablation ICP-MS (˜2%), secondary ion mass spectrometry (<1%), and isotope dilution-thermal ionization mass spectrometry (˜0.4%) methods. However, it is accurate and has been used successfully on fine-grained lithologies, including mafic rocks from island arcs, ocean basins, and ophiolites, which have traditionally been considered devoid of dateable zircons. This technique is particularly well suited for medium- to fine-grained mafic volcanic rocks where zircon separation is challenging and can also be used to date rocks where only small amounts of sample are available (clasts, xenoliths, dredge rocks). The most significant problem with dating small in situ zircon grains is Pb loss. In our study, many of the small zircons analyzed have high U contents, and the isotopic compositions of these grains are consistent with Pb loss resulting from internal α radiation damage. This problem is not significant in very young rocks and can be minimized in older rocks by avoiding high-U zircon grains.

Quantitative analysis of a brass alloy using CF-LIBS and a laser ablation time-of-flight mass spectrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahmed, Nasar; Abdullah, M.; Ahmed, Rizwan; Piracha, N. K.; Aslam Baig, M.

2018-01-01

We present a quantitative analysis of a brass alloy using laser induced breakdown spectroscopy, energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and laser ablation time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LA-TOF-MS). The emission lines of copper (Cu I) and zinc (Zn I), and the constituent elements of the brass alloy were used to calculate the plasma parameters. The plasma temperature was calculated from the Boltzmann plot as (10 000  ±  1000) K and the electron number density was determined as (2.0  ±  0.5)  ×  1017 cm-3 from the Stark-broadened Cu I line as well as using the Saha-Boltzmann equation. The elemental composition was deduced using these techniques: the Boltzmann plot method (70% Cu and 30% Zn), internal reference self-absorption correction (63.36% Cu and 36.64% Zn), EDX (61.75% Cu and 38.25% Zn), and LA-TOF (62% Cu and 38% Zn), whereas, the certified composition is (62% Cu and 38% Zn). It was observed that the internal reference self-absorption correction method yields analytical results comparable to that of EDX and LA-TOF-MS.

Determination of UV-visible-NIR absorption coefficient of graphite bulk using direct and indirect methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smausz, T.; Kondász, B.; Gera, T.; Ajtai, T.; Utry, N.; Pintér, M.; Kiss-Albert, G.; Budai, J.; Bozóki, Z.; Szabó, G.; Hopp, B.

2017-10-01

Absorption coefficient of graphite bulk pressed from 1 to 5 μm-sized crystalline grains was measured in UV-Vis-NIR range with three different methods: (i) determination of pulsed laser ablation rate as the function of laser fluence for different wavelengths (248, 337, 532, and 1064 nm, respectively); (ii) production of aerosol particles by UV laser ablation of the bulk graphite in inert atmosphere and determination of the mass-specific absorption coefficient with a four-wavelength (266, 355, 532, and 1064 nm, respectively) photoacoustic spectrometer, and (iii) spectroscopic ellipsometry in 250-1000 nm range. Taking into account the wide range of the absorption coefficients of different carbon structures, an overall relatively good agreement was observed for the three methods. The ellipsometric results fit well with the ablation rate measurement, and the data obtained with photoacoustic method are also similar in the UV and NIR region; however, the values were somewhat higher in visible and near-UV range. Taking into account the limitations of the methods, they can be promising candidates for the determination of absorption coefficient when the samples are strongly scattering and there is no possibility to perform transmissivity measurements.

Imprinting of Pre-Imposed Laser Perturbations on Targets With a High-Z Overcoat

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karasik, Max; Weaver, J. L.; Aglitskiy, Y.; Oh, J.; Schmitt, A. J.; Bates, J. W.; Serlin, V.; Obenschain, S. P.

2014-10-01

In direct drive ICF, most of the laser imprint is expected to occur during the initial part of the laser pulse, which generates the first shocks necessary to compress the target to achieve high gain. Previous experiments found that a thin (400-800Å) high-Z (Au or Pd) overcoat on the laser side of the target is effective in suppressing broadband imprint. The overcoat initially absorbs the laser and emits soft x-rays that ablate the target, forming a large stand-off distance between laser absorption and ablation and smoothing the drive perturbations. We investigate the effectiveness of imprint suppression for different spatial wavelengths via perturbations imposed on top of the beams smoothed by Induced Spatial Incoherence (ISI). Measurements of areal mass non-uniformity on planar targets driven by the Nike KrF laser are made by curved crystal x-ray radiography. Simultaneous side-on radiography allows observation of the layer dynamics and monitoring of the laser absorption - target ablation stand-off. X-ray flux from the high-Z layer is monitored using absolutely calibrated time-resolved x-ray spectrometers. Work supported by the Department of Energy/NNSA.

Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) and its Application in Life Sciences

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Gu-feng; Wang, Hong-mei

2001-08-01

Inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) has made much progress since its birth in the late 1990s. This paper will give a rather systematic overview on the use of this technique in new devices and technologies related to plasma source, sample-introducing device and detecting spectrometer etc. In this overview, an emphasis will be put on the evaluation of the ICP-MS technique in combination with a series of physical, chemical and biological techniques, such as laser ablation (LA), capillary electrophoresis (CE) and high performance liquid chromatograph (HPLC), along with their representative high accuracy and high sensitivity. Finally, comprehensive and fruitful applications of the ICP-MS and its combinative techniques in the detection of trace metallic elements and isotopes in complex biological and environmental samples will be revealed.

Sulfate and sulfide sulfur isotopes (δ34S and δ33S) measured by solution and laser ablation MC-ICP-MS: An enhanced approach using external correction

USGS Publications Warehouse

Pribil, Michael; Ridley, William I.; Emsbo, Poul

2015-01-01

Isotope ratio measurements using a multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (MC-ICP-MS) commonly use standard-sample bracketing with a single isotope standard for mass bias correction for elements with narrow-range isotope systems measured by MC-ICP-MS, e.g. Cu, Fe, Zn, and Hg. However, sulfur (S) isotopic composition (δ34S) in nature can range from at least − 40 to + 40‰, potentially exceeding the ability of standard-sample bracketing using a single sulfur isotope standard to accurately correct for mass bias. Isotopic fractionation via solution and laser ablation introduction was determined during sulfate sulfur (Ssulfate) isotope measurements. An external isotope calibration curve was constructed using in-house and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Ssulfate isotope reference materials (RM) in an attempt to correct for the difference. The ability of external isotope correction for Ssulfate isotope measurements was evaluated by analyzing NIST and United States Geological Survey (USGS) Ssulfate isotope reference materials as unknowns. Differences in δ34Ssulfate between standard-sample bracketing and standard-sample bracketing with external isotope correction for sulfate samples ranged from 0.72‰ to 2.35‰ over a δ34S range of 1.40‰ to 21.17‰. No isotopic differences were observed when analyzing Ssulfide reference materials over a δ34Ssulfide range of − 32.1‰ to 17.3‰ and a δ33S range of − 16.5‰ to 8.9‰ via laser ablation (LA)-MC-ICP-MS. Here, we identify a possible plasma induced fractionation for Ssulfate and describe a new method using external isotope calibration corrections using solution and LA-MC-ICP-MS.

Aluminum X-ray mass-ablation rate measurements

DOE PAGES

Kline, John L.; Hager, Jonathan D.

2016-10-15

Measurements of the mass ablation rate of aluminum (Al) have been completed at the Omega Laser Facility. Measurements of the mass-ablation rate show Al is higher than plastic (CH), comparable to high density carbon (HDC), and lower than beryllium. The mass-ablation rate is consistent with predictions using a 1D Lagrangian code, Helios. Lastly, the results suggest Al capsules have a reasonable ablation pressure even with a higher albedo than beryllium or carbon ablators warranting further investigation into the viability of Al capsules for ignition should be pursued.

A velocity map imaging mass spectrometer for photofragments of fast ion beams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johnston, M. David; Pearson, Wright L.; Wang, Greg; Metz, Ricardo B.

2018-01-01

We present the details of a fast ion velocity map imaging mass spectrometer that is capable of imaging the photofragments of trap-cooled (≥7 K) ions produced in a versatile ion source. The new instrument has been used to study the predissociation of N2O+ produced by electric discharge and the direct dissociation of Al2+ formed by laser ablation. The instrument's resolution is currently limited by the diameter of the collimating iris to a value of Δv/v = 7.6%. Photofragment images of N2O+ show that when the predissociative state is changed from 2Σ+(200) to 2Σ+(300) the dominant product channel shifts from a spin-forbidden ground state, N (4S) + NO+(v = 5), to a spin-allowed pathway, N*(2D) + NO+. The first photofragment images of Al2+ confirm the existence of a directly dissociative parallel transition (2Σ+u ← 2Σ+g) that yields products with a large amount of kinetic energy. D0 of ground state Al2+ (2Σ+g) measured from these images is 138 ± 5 kJ/mol, which is consistent with the published literature.

Simultaneous in situ determination of both U-Th-Pb and Sm-Nd isotopes in monazite by laser ablation using a magnetic sector ICP-MS and a multicollector ICP-MS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goudie, D. J.; Fisher, C. M.; Hanchar, J. M.; Davis, W. J.; Crowley, J. L.; Ayers, J. C.

2012-12-01

We present a method for the simultaneous in situ determination of U-Th-Pb and Sm-Nd isotopes in monazite, using a laser ablation (LA) system coupled to both a magnetic sector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (HR) ICP-MS and a multicollector (MC) ICP-MS. The ablated material is split using a glass Y-connector and transported simultaneously to both mass spectrometers via helium carrier gas. The MC-ICP-MS is configured to provide relative Ce, Gd, and Eu contents, in addition to Sm and Nd. This approach obtains both age (U-Pb), tracer isotope (Sm-Nd), and REE element data (Ce, Gd, and Eu), in the same ablation volume, thus reducing sampling problems associated with fine-scale zoning and other internal structures. The accuracy and precision of the U-Pb data are demonstrated using six well characterized monazite reference materials from the Geological Survey of Canada (three of which are currently used as SHRIMP standards) and agree well with previously determined ID-TIMS ages. The accuracy of the Sm-Nd isotopic data was assessed by comparison to TIMS measurements on a well-characterized in-house monazite standard. The dual LA-ICP-MS method was applied to the Birch Creek Pluton (BCP) in the White Mountains, California in a case study to test the utility of U-Th-Pb dating coupled with Sm-Nd (and Ce, Gd, Eu) isotopic data for solving geologic problems. Previous work on the Cretaceous BCP [1] used Th-Pb ages coupled with O isotopic data to constrain hydrothermal fluid events, as recorded in monazite. The original study suggested that the high delta 18O monazite in Paleozoic country rocks adjacent to the BCP grew in response to fluid alternation associated with the intrusion of the BCP, based on overlapping age with the BCP. New monazite split-stream U-Pb and Sm-Nd data show that monazite from the BCP pluton and monazite from altered country rock have homogenous and overlapping initial Nd isotopic composition, further strengthening the proposal that monazite in altered country rock can be a tracer of fluid alternation events. The split-stream U-Pb ages agrees with new high precision ID-TIMS U-Pb ages from the same monazite grains. These results demonstrate how monazite age and Sm-Nd isotopic data, coupled with delta 18O, can identify hydrothermal monazite and constrain the timing and potential sources of fluid events. [1] Ayers et al., Geology 34 (2006) 653-656.

Pulsed microdischarge with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry for elemental analysis on solid metal samples.

PubMed

Li, Weifeng; Yin, Zhibin; Cheng, Xiaoling; Hang, Wei; Li, Jianfeng; Huang, Benli

2015-05-05

Pulsed microdischarge employed as source for direct solid analysis was investigated in N2 environment at atmospheric pressure. Compared with direct current (DC) microdischarge, it exhibits advantages with respect to the ablation and emission of the sample. Comprehensive evidence, including voltage-current relationship, current density (j), and electron density (ne), suggests that pulsed microdischarge is in the arc regime while DC microdischarge belongs to glow. Capability in ablating metal samples demonstrates that pulsed microdischarge is a viable option for direct solid sampling because of the enhanced instantaneous energy. Using optical spectrometer, only common emission lines of N2 can be acquired in DC mode, whereas primary atomic and ionic lines of the sample are obtained in the case of pulsed mode. Calculations show a significant difference in N2 vibrational temperatures between DC and pulsed microdischarge. Combined with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICPMS), pulsed microdischarge exhibits much better performances in calibration linearity and limits of detection (LOD) than those of DC discharge in direct analysis of samples of different matrices. To improve transmission efficiency, a mixture of Ar and N2 was employed as discharge gas as well as carrier gas in follow-up experiments, facilitating that LODs of most elements reached ng/g.

Top-down mass spectrometry imaging of intact proteins by laser ablation ESI FT-ICR MS.

PubMed

Kiss, András; Smith, Donald F; Reschke, Brent R; Powell, Matthew J; Heeren, Ron M A

2014-05-01

Laser ablation ESI (LAESI) is a recent development in MS imaging. It has been shown that lipids and small metabolites can be imaged in various samples such as plant material, tissue sections or bacterial colonies without any sample pretreatment. Further, LAESI has been shown to produce multiply charged protein ions from liquids or solid surfaces. This presents a means to address one of the biggest challenges in MS imaging; the identification of proteins directly from biological tissue surfaces. Such identification is hindered by the lack of multiply charged proteins in common MALDI ion sources and the difficulty of performing tandem MS on such large, singly charged ions. We present here top-down identification of intact proteins from tissue with a LAESI ion source combined with a hybrid ion-trap FT-ICR mass spectrometer. The performance of the system was first tested with a standard protein with electron capture dissociation and infrared multiphoton dissociation fragmentation to prove the viability of LAESI FT-ICR for top-down proteomics. Finally, the imaging of a tissue section was performed, where a number of intact proteins were measured and the hemoglobin α chain was identified directly from tissue using CID and infrared multiphoton dissociation fragmentation. © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

In-Situ Apatite Laser Ablation U-Th-Sm/He Dating, Methods and Challenges

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pickering, J. E.; Matthews, W.; Guest, B.; Hamilton, B.; Sykes, C.

2015-12-01

In-situ, laser ablation U-Th-Sm/He dating is an emerging technique in thermochronology that has been proven as a means to date zircon and monzonite1-5. In-situ U-Th-Sm/He thermochronology eliminates many of the problems and inconveniences associated with traditional, whole grain methods, including; reducing bias in grain selection based on size, shape and clarity; allowing for the use of broken grains and grains with inclusions; avoiding bad neighbour effects; and eliminating safety hazards associated with dissolution. In-situ apatite laser ablation is challenging due to low concentrations of U and Th and thus a low abundance of radiogenic He. For apatite laser ablation to be effective the ultra-high-vacuum (UHV) line must have very low and consistent background levels of He. To reduce He background, samples are mounted in a UHV stable medium. Our mounting process uses a MicroHePP (Microscope Mounted Heated Platen Press) to press samples into FEP (fluorinated ethylene propylene) bonded to an aluminum backing plate. Samples are ablated using a Resonetics 193 nm excimer laser and liberated He is measured using a quadrupole mass spectrometer on the ASI Alphachron noble gas line; collectively this system is known as the Resochron. The ablated sites are imaged using a Zygo Zescope optical profilometer and ablated pit volume measured using PitVol, a custom MatLab algorithm developed to enable precise and unbiased measurement of the ablated pit geometry. We use the well-characterized Durango apatite to demonstrate the accuracy and precision of the method. He liberated from forty-two pits, having volumes between 1700 and 9000 um3, were measured using the Resochron. The ablated sites were imaged using a Zygo Zescope optical profilometer and ablated pit volume measured using PitVol. U, Th and Sm concentrations were measured by laser ablation and the U-Th-Sm/He age calculated by standard age equation. An age of 33.8±0.31 Ma was determined and compares well with conventional U-Th/He methods, whole grain degassing and dissolution, that produced an age of 32.73±0.47 Ma for chips of the same Durango crystal. Further dating of other well characterized apatite crystals will be used to test the robustness of the method.

Subcellular analysis by laser ablation electrospray ionization mass spectrometry

DOEpatents

Vertes, Akos; Stolee, Jessica A; Shrestha, Bindesh

2014-12-02

In various embodiments, a method of laser ablation electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (LAESI-MS) may generally comprise micro-dissecting a cell comprising at least one of a cell wall and a cell membrane to expose at least one subcellular component therein, ablating the at least one subcellular component by an infrared laser pulse to form an ablation plume, intercepting the ablation plume by an electrospray plume to form ions, and detecting the ions by mass spectrometry.

Real time determination of the laser ablated mass by means of electric field-perturbation measurement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pacheco, P.; Álvarez, J.; Sarmiento, R.; Bredice, F.; Sánchez-Aké, C.; Villagrán-Muniz, M.; Palleschi, V.

2018-04-01

A Nd:YAG ns-pulsed laser was used to ablate Al, Cd and Zn targets, which were placed between the plates of a planar charged capacitor. The plasma generates a transient redistribution of the electrical charges on the plates that can be measured as a voltage drop across a resistor connected to the ground plate. This signal is proportional to the capacitor applied voltage, the distance between the plates and the total number of ions produced in the ablation process which in turn is related to the laser energy and the ablated mass. After a series of pulses, the targets were weighed on a thermogravimetric balance to measure the ablated mass. Our results show that the electrical signal measured on the resistor is univocally related to the ablated mass from the target. Therefore, after a proper calibration depending on the material and the experimental geometry, the electrical signal can be used for real time quantitative measurement of the ablated mass in pulsed laser generated plasma experiments. The experiments were repeated on an aluminum target, with and without the presence of the external electric field in order to determine the possible influence of the applied electric field on the ablated mass.

Laser ablation-combustion-GC-IRMS--a new method for online analysis of intra-annual variation of delta13C in tree rings.

PubMed

Schulze, Brigit; Wirth, Christian; Linke, Petra; Brand, Willi A; Kuhlmann, Iris; Horna, Viviana; Schulze, Ernst-Detlef

2004-11-01

We present a new, rapid method for high-resolution online determination of delta13C in tree rings, combining laser ablation (LA), combustion (C), gas chromatography (GC) and isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) (LA-C-GC-IRMS). Sample material was extracted every 6 min with a UV-laser from a tree core, leaving 40-microm-wide holes. Ablated wood dust was combusted to CO2 at 700 degrees C, separated from other gases on a GC column and injected into an isotope ratio mass spectrometer after removal of water vapor. The measurements were calibrated against an internal and an external standard. The tree core remained intact and could be used for subsequent dendrochronological and dendrochemical analyses. Cores from two Scots pine trees (Pinus sylvestris spp. sibirica Lebed.) from central Siberia were sampled. Inter- and intra-annual patterns of delta13C in whole-wood and lignin-extracted cores were indistinguishable apart from a constant offset, suggesting that lignin extraction is unnecessary for our method. Comparison with the conventional method (microtome slicing, elemental analysis and IRMS) indicated high accuracy of the LA-C-GC-IRMS measurements. Patterns of delta13C along three parallel ablation lines on the same core showed high congruence. A conservative estimate of the precision was +/- 0.24 per thousand. Isotopic patterns of the two Scots pine trees were broadly similar, indicating a signal related to the forest stand's climate history. The maximum variation in delta13C over 22 years was about 5 per thousand, ranging from -27 to -22.3 per thousand. The most obvious pattern was a sharp decline in delta13C during latewood formation and a rapid increase with spring early growth. We conclude that the LA-C-GC-IRMS method will be useful in elucidating short-term climate effects on the delta13C signal in tree rings.

Global Particle Size Distributions: Measurements during the Atmospheric Tomography (ATom) Project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brock, C. A.; Williamson, C.; Kupc, A.; Froyd, K. D.; Richardson, M.; Weinzierl, B.; Dollner, M.; Schuh, H.; Erdesz, F.

2016-12-01

The Atmospheric Tomography (ATom) project is a three-year NASA-sponsored program to map the spatial and temporal distribution of greenhouse gases, reactive species, and aerosol particles from the Arctic to the Antarctic. In situ measurements are being made on the NASA DC-8 research aircraft, which will make four global circumnavigations of the Earth over the mid-Pacific and mid-Atlantic Oceans while continuously profiling between 0.2 and 13 km altitude. In situ microphysical measurements will provide an unique and unprecedented dataset of aerosol particle size distributions between 0.004 and 50 µm diameter. This unbiased, representative dataset allows investigation of new particle formation in the remote troposphere, placing strong observational constraints on the chemical and physical mechanisms that govern particle formation and growth to cloud-active sizes. Particles from 0.004 to 0.055 µm are measured with 10 condensation particle counters. Particles with diameters from 0.06 to 1.0 µm are measured with one-second resolution using two ultra-high sensitivity aerosol size spectrometers (UHSASes). A laser aerosol spectrometer (LAS) measures particle size distributions between 0.12 and 10 µm in diameter. Finally, a cloud, aerosol and precipitation spectrometer (CAPS) underwing optical spectrometer probe sizes ambient particles with diameters from 0.5 to 50 µm and images and sizes precipitation-sized particles. Additional particle instruments on the payload include a high-resolution time-of-flight aerosol mass spectrometer and a single particle laser-ablation aerosol mass spectrometer. The instruments are calibrated in the laboratory and on the aircraft. Calibrations are checked in flight by introducing four sizes of polystyrene latex (PSL) microspheres into the sampling inlet. The CAPS probe is calibrated using PSL and glass microspheres that are aspirated into the sample volume. Comparisons between the instruments and checks with the calibration aerosol indicate flight performance within uncertainties expected from laboratory calibrations. Analysis of data from the first ATom circuit in August 2016 shows high concentrations of newly formed particles in the tropical middle and upper troposphere and Arctic lower troposphere.

Status and outlook of CHIP-TRAP: The Central Michigan University high precision Penning trap

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Redshaw, M.; Bryce, R. A.; Hawks, P.; Gamage, N. D.; Hunt, C.; Kandegedara, R. M. E. B.; Ratnayake, I. S.; Sharp, L.

2016-06-01

At Central Michigan University we are developing a high-precision Penning trap mass spectrometer (CHIP-TRAP) that will focus on measurements with long-lived radioactive isotopes. CHIP-TRAP will consist of a pair of hyperbolic precision-measurement Penning traps, and a cylindrical capture/filter trap in a 12 T magnetic field. Ions will be produced by external ion sources, including a laser ablation source, and transported to the capture trap at low energies enabling ions of a given m / q ratio to be selected via their time-of-flight. In the capture trap, contaminant ions will be removed with a mass-selective rf dipole excitation and the ion of interest will be transported to the measurement traps. A phase-sensitive image charge detection technique will be used for simultaneous cyclotron frequency measurements on single ions in the two precision traps, resulting in a reduction in statistical uncertainty due to magnetic field fluctuations.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gundlach-Graham, Alexander W.; Dennis, Elise; Ray, Steven J.

An inductively coupled plasma distance-of-flight mass spectrometer (ICP-DOFMS) has been coupled with laser-ablation (LA) sample introduction for the elemental analysis of solids. ICP-DOFMS is well suited for the analysis of laser-generated aerosols because it offers both high-speed mass analysis and simultaneous multi-elemental detection. Here, we evaluate the analytical performance of the LA-ICP-DOFMS instrument, equipped with a microchannel plate-based imaging detector, for the measurement of steady-state LA signals, as well as transient signals produced from single LA events. Steady-state detection limits are 1 mg g1, and absolute single-pulse LA detection limits are 200 fg for uranium; the system is shown capablemore » of performing time-resolved single-pulse LA analysis. By leveraging the benefits of simultaneous multi-elemental detection, we also attain a good shot-to-shot reproducibility of 6% relative standard deviation (RSD) and isotope-ratio precision of 0.3% RSD with a 10 s integration time.« less

Evaluating the influence of laser wavelength and detection stage geometry on optical detection efficiency in a single-particle mass spectrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marsden, Nicholas; Flynn, Michael J.; Taylor, Jonathan W.; Allan, James D.; Coe, Hugh

2016-12-01

Single-particle mass spectrometry (SPMS) is a useful tool for the online study of aerosols with the ability to measure size-resolved chemical composition with a temporal resolution relevant to atmospheric processes. In SPMS, optical particle detection is used for the effective temporal alignment of an ablation laser pulse with the presence of a particle in the ion source, and it gives the option of aerodynamic sizing by measuring the offset of particle arrival times between two detection stages. The efficiency of the optical detection stage has a strong influence on the overall instrument performance. A custom detection laser system consisting of a high-powered fibre-coupled Nd:YAG solid-state laser with a collimated beam was implemented in the detection stage of a laser ablation aerosol particle time-of-flight (LAAP-TOF) single-particle mass spectrometer without major modifications to instrument geometry. The use of a collimated laser beam permitted the construction of a numerical model that predicts the effects of detection laser wavelength, output power, beam focussing characteristics, light collection angle, particle size, and refractive index on the effective detection radius (R) of the detection laser beam. We compare the model predictions with an ambient data set acquired during the Ice in Clouds Experiment - Dust (ICE-D) project. The new laser system resulted in an order-of-magnitude improvement in instrument sensitivity to spherical particles in the size range 500-800 nm compared to a focussed 405 nm laser diode system. The model demonstrates that the limit of detection in terms of particle size is determined by the scattering cross section (Csca) as predicted by Mie theory. In addition, if light is collected over a narrow collection angle, oscillations in the magnitude of Csca with respect to particle diameter result in a variation in R, resulting in large particle-size-dependent variation in detection efficiency across the particle transmission range. This detection bias is imposed on the aerodynamic size distributions measured by the instrument and accounts for some of the detection bias towards sea salt particles in the ambient data set.

Ablation mass features in multi-pulses femtosecond laser ablate molybdenum target

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Dongye; Gierse, Niels; Wegner, Julian; Pretzler, Georg; Oelmann, Jannis; Brezinsek, Sebastijan; Liang, Yunfeng; Neubauer, Olaf; Rasinski, Marcin; Linsmeier, Christian; Ding, Hongbin

2018-03-01

In this study, the ablation mass features related to reflectivity of bulk Molybdenum (Mo) were investigated by a Ti: Sa 6 fs laser pulse at central wavelength 790 nm. The ablated mass removal was determined using Confocal Microscopy (CM) technique. The surface reflectivity was calibrated and measured by a Lambda 950 spectrophotometer as well as a CCD camera during laser ablation. The ablation mass loss per pulse increase with the increasing of laser shots, meanwhile the surface reflectivity decrease. The multi-pulses (100 shots) ablation threshold of Mo was determined to be 0.15 J/cm2. The incubation coefficient was estimated as 0.835. The reflectivity change of the Mo target surface following multi-pulses laser ablation were studied as a function of laser ablation shots at various laser fluences from 1.07 J/cm2 to 36.23 J/cm2. The results of measured reflectivity indicate that surface reflectivity of Mo target has a significant decline in the first 3-laser pulses at the various fluences. These results are important for developing a quantitative analysis model for laser induced ablation and laser induced breakdown spectroscopy for the first wall diagnosis of EAST tokamak.

Influence of the Laser Spot Size, Focal Beam Profile, and Tissue Type on the Lipid Signals Obtained by MALDI-MS Imaging in Oversampling Mode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wiegelmann, Marcel; Dreisewerd, Klaus; Soltwisch, Jens

2016-12-01

To improve the lateral resolution in matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) beyond the dimensions of the focal laser spot oversampling techniques are employed. However, few data are available on the effect of the laser spot size and its focal beam profile on the ion signals recorded in oversampling mode. To investigate these dependencies, we produced 2 times six spots with dimensions between 30 and 200 μm. By optional use of a fundamental beam shaper, square flat-top and Gaussian beam profiles were compared. MALDI-MSI data were collected using a fixed pixel size of 20 μm and both pixel-by-pixel and continuous raster oversampling modes on a QSTAR mass spectrometer. Coronal mouse brain sections coated with 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid matrix were used as primary test systems. Sizably higher phospholipid ion signals were produced with laser spots exceeding a dimension of 100 μm, although the same amount of material was essentially ablated from the 20 μm-wide oversampling pixel at all spot size settings. Only on white matter areas of the brain these effects were less apparent to absent. Scanning electron microscopy images showed that these findings can presumably be attributed to different matrix morphologies depending on tissue type. We propose that a transition in the material ejection mechanisms from a molecular desorption at large to ablation at smaller spot sizes and a concomitant reduction in ion yields may be responsible for the observed spot size effects. The combined results indicate a complex interplay between tissue type, matrix crystallization, and laser-derived desorption/ablation and finally analyte ionization.

Influence of the Laser Spot Size, Focal Beam Profile, and Tissue Type on the Lipid Signals Obtained by MALDI-MS Imaging in Oversampling Mode.

PubMed

Wiegelmann, Marcel; Dreisewerd, Klaus; Soltwisch, Jens

2016-12-01

To improve the lateral resolution in matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) beyond the dimensions of the focal laser spot oversampling techniques are employed. However, few data are available on the effect of the laser spot size and its focal beam profile on the ion signals recorded in oversampling mode. To investigate these dependencies, we produced 2 times six spots with dimensions between ~30 and 200 μm. By optional use of a fundamental beam shaper, square flat-top and Gaussian beam profiles were compared. MALDI-MSI data were collected using a fixed pixel size of 20 μm and both pixel-by-pixel and continuous raster oversampling modes on a QSTAR mass spectrometer. Coronal mouse brain sections coated with 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid matrix were used as primary test systems. Sizably higher phospholipid ion signals were produced with laser spots exceeding a dimension of ~100 μm, although the same amount of material was essentially ablated from the 20 μm-wide oversampling pixel at all spot size settings. Only on white matter areas of the brain these effects were less apparent to absent. Scanning electron microscopy images showed that these findings can presumably be attributed to different matrix morphologies depending on tissue type. We propose that a transition in the material ejection mechanisms from a molecular desorption at large to ablation at smaller spot sizes and a concomitant reduction in ion yields may be responsible for the observed spot size effects. The combined results indicate a complex interplay between tissue type, matrix crystallization, and laser-derived desorption/ablation and finally analyte ionization. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.

Channel electron multiplier operated on a sounding rocket without a cryogenic vacuum pump from 120 - 75 km altitude

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dickson, S.; Gausa, M. A.; Robertson, S. H.; Sternovsky, Z.

2012-12-01

We demonstrate that a channel electron multiplier (CEM) can be operated on a sounding rocket in the pulse-counting mode from 120 km to 75 km altitude without the cryogenic evacuation used in the past. Evacuation of the CEM is provided only by aerodynamic flow around the rocket. This demonstration is motivated by the need for additional flights of mass spectrometers to clarify the fate of metallic compounds and ions ablated from micrometeorites and their possible role in the nucleation of noctilucent clouds. The CEMs were flown as guest instruments on the two sounding rockets of the CHAMPS (CHarge And mass of Meteoritic smoke ParticleS) rocket campaign which were launched into the mesosphere in October 2011 from Andøya Rocket Range, Norway. Modeling of the aerodynamic flow around the payload with Direct Simulation Monte-Carlo (DSMC) code showed that the pressure is reduced below ambient in the void beneath an aft-facing surface. An enclosure containing the CEM was placed above an aft-facing deck and a valve was opened on the downleg to expose the CEM to the aerodynamically evacuated region below. The CEM operated successfully from apogee down to ~75 km. A Pirani gauge confirmed pressures reduced to as low as 20% of ambient with the extent of reduction dependent upon altitude and velocity. Additional DSMC simulations indicate that there are alternate payload designs with improved aerodynamic pumping for forward mounted instruments such as mass spectrometers.

High Throughput Petrochronology and Sedimentary Provenance Analysis by Automated Phase Mapping and LAICPMS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vermeesch, Pieter; Rittner, Martin; Petrou, Ethan; Omma, Jenny; Mattinson, Chris; Garzanti, Eduardo

2017-11-01

The first step in most geochronological studies is to extract dateable minerals from the host rock, which is time consuming, removes textural context, and increases the chance for sample cross contamination. We here present a new method to rapidly perform in situ analyses by coupling a fast scanning electron microscope (SEM) with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometer (EDS) to a Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (LAICPMS) instrument. Given a polished hand specimen, a petrographic thin section, or a grain mount, Automated Phase Mapping (APM) by SEM/EDS produces chemical and mineralogical maps from which the X-Y coordinates of the datable minerals are extracted. These coordinates are subsequently passed on to the laser ablation system for isotopic analysis. We apply the APM + LAICPMS method to three igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary case studies. In the first case study, a polished slab of granite from Guernsey was scanned for zircon, producing a 609 ± 8 Ma weighted mean age. The second case study investigates a paragneiss from an ultra high pressure terrane in the north Qaidam terrane (Qinghai, China). One hundred seven small (25 µm) metamorphic zircons were analyzed by LAICPMS to confirm a 419 ± 4 Ma age of peak metamorphism. The third and final case study uses APM + LAICPMS to generate a large provenance data set and trace the provenance of 25 modern sediments from Angola, documenting longshore drift of Orange River sediments over a distance of 1,500 km. These examples demonstrate that APM + LAICPMS is an efficient and cost effective way to improve the quantity and quality of geochronological data.

Laser Imprint Suppression for Spike Pulseshapes using a Thin High-Z Overcoat

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karasik, Max; Aglitskiy, Y.; Oh, J.; Weaver, J. L.; Bates, J. W.; Serlin, V.; Obenschain, S. P.

2013-10-01

In directly driven ICF, most of the laser imprint is expected to occur during the initial part of the laser pulse, which generates the first shocks necessary to compress the target to achieve high gain. Previous experiments where the laser pulse had a low intensity foot to generate the first shock found that a thin (< 1000 Å) high-Z overcoat is effective in suppressing imprint [PoP 9, 2234 (2002)]. The overcoat initially absorbs the laser and emits soft x-rays that ablate the target, allowing a large stand-off distance between laser absorption and ablation and giving higher ablation velocity. The coating is thin so that it becomes transparent to the main part of the pulse, minimizing x-ray preheat. The present experiments aim to extend this method to spike pulseshapes used in current target designs, with a view to direct drive on the NIF. Measurements of RT-amplified areal mass non-uniformity on planar targets driven by ISI-smoothed Nike KrF laser are made by curved crystal x-ray radiography. X-ray flux from the high-Z layer is monitored using absolutely calibrated time-resolved x-ray spectrometers. Simultaneous side-on radiography allows observation of the layer dynamics as well as target trajectory. The effect on imprint as well as pre-imposed ripple growth will be presented. Work supported by DOE/NNSA.

Interfacing an aspiration ion mobility spectrometer to a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Adamov, Alexey; Viidanoja, Jyrki; Kaerpaenoja, Esko

2007-04-15

This article presents the combination of an aspiration-type ion mobility spectrometer with a mass spectrometer. The interface between the aspiration ion mobility spectrometer and the mass spectrometer was designed to allow for quick mounting of the aspiration ion mobility spectrometer onto a Sciex API-300 triple quadrupole mass spectrometer. The developed instrumentation is used for gathering fundamental information on aspiration ion mobility spectrometry. Performance of the instrument is demonstrated using 2,6-di-tert-butyl pyridine and dimethyl methylphosphonate.

Single particle analysis of eastern Mediterranean aerosol particles: Influence of the source region on the chemical composition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Clemen, Hans-Christian; Schneider, Johannes; Köllner, Franziska; Klimach, Thomas; Pikridas, Michael; Stavroulas, Iasonas; Sciare, Jean; Borrmann, Stephan

2017-04-01

The Mediterranean region is one of the most climatically sensitive areas and is influenced by air masses of different origin. Aerosol particles are one important factor contributing to the Earth's radiative forcing, but knowledge about their composition and sources is still limited. Here, we report on results from the INUIT-BACCHUS-ACTRIS campaign, which was conducted at the Cyprus Atmospheric Observatory (CAO, Agia Marina Xyliatou) in Cyprus in April 2016. Our results show that the chemical composition of the aerosol particles in the eastern Mediterranean is strongly dependent on their source region. The composition of particles in a size range between 150 nm and 3 μm was measured using the Aircraft-based Laser ABlation Aerosol MAss spectrometer (ALABAMA), which is a single particle laser ablation instrument using a bipolar time-of-flight mass spectrometer. The mass spectral information on cations and anions allow for the analysis of different molecular fragments. The information about the source regions results from backward trajectories using HYSPLIT Trajectory Model (Trajectory Ensemble) on hourly basis. To assess the influence of certain source regions on the air masses arriving at CAO, we consider the number of trajectories that crossed the respective source region within defined time steps. For a more detailed picture also the height and the velocity of the air masses during their overpass above the source regions will be considered. During the campaign at CAO in April 2016 three main air mass source regions were observed: 1) Northern Central Europe, likely with an enhanced anthropogenic influence (e.g. sulfate and black carbon from combustion processes, fly ash particles from power plants, characterized by Sr and Ba), 2) Southwest Europe, with a higher influence of the Mediterranean Sea including sea salt particles (characterized by, e.g., NaxCly, NaClxNOy), 3) Northern Africa/Sahara, with air masses that are expected to have a higher load of mineral dust particles (characterized by typical elements like Al, Si, Ca, Fe). To estimate the influence of the selected regions, we compare the time series of the dominating elements or molecular fragments to the times with trajectories from specific source regions. For differentiation between short and long-range transported particles, molecules that are typical for aging processes in the atmosphere, e.g., products from reaction with ozone, nitric and sulfuric acid will be considered. Additionally, modifications of the internal mixing state of the particles during the measurement period will be studied. This project was supported by DFG (FOR 1525 "INUIT) and has received funding from the European Union's Seventh Framework Programme (FP7) project BACCHUS under grant agreement no. 603445 and from the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme ACTRIS-2 under grant agreement No 654109.

Laser ablation U-Th-Sm/He dating of detrital apatite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guest, B.; Pickering, J. E.; Matthews, W.; Hamilton, B.; Sykes, C.

2016-12-01

Detrital apatite U-Th-Sm/He thermochronology has the potential to be a powerful tool for conducting basin thermal history analyses as well as complementing the well-established detrital zircon U-Pb approach in source to sink studies. A critical roadblock that prevents the routine application of detrital apatite U-Th-Sm/He thermochronology to solving geological problems is the costly and difficult whole grain approach that is generally used to obtain apatite U-Th-Sm/He data. We present a new analytical method for laser ablation thermochronology on apatite. Samples are ablated using a Resonetics™ 193 nm excimer laser and liberated 4He is measured using an ASI (Australian Scientific Instruments) Alphachron™ quadrupole mass spectrometer system; collectively known as the Resochron™. The ablated sites are imaged using a Zygo ZescopeTM optical profilometer and ablated pit volume measured using PitVol, a custom MatLabTM algorithm. The accuracy and precision of the method presented here was confirmed using well-characterized Durango apatite and Fish Canyon Tuff (FCT) apatite reference materials, with Durango apatite used as a primary reference and FCT apatite used as a secondary reference. The weighted average of our laser ablation Durango ages (30.5±0.35 Ma) compare well with ages obtained using conventional whole grain degassing and dissolution U-Th-Sm/He methods (32.56±0.43 Ma) (Jonckheere et.al., 1 993; Farley, 2000; McDowell et.al., 2005) for chips of the same Durango crystal. These Durango ages were used to produce a K-value to correct the secondary references and unknown samples. After correction, FCT apatite has a weighted average age of 28.37 ± 0.96 Ma, which agrees well with published ages. As a further test of this new method we have conducted a case study on a set of samples from the British Mountains of the Yukon Territory in NW Canada. Sandstone samples collected across the British Mountains were analyzed using conventional U-Th-Sm/He whole grain methods and then reanalyzed using our new Laser ablation approach. The laser ablation results are consistent with those obtained using conventional methods, confirming that apatite laser ablation U-Th-Sm/He thermochronology is a viable alternative for collecting large low temperature thermochronology data sets from detrital samples.

Dual Source Time-of-flight Mass Spectrometer and Sample Handling System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brinckerhoff, W.; Mahaffy, P.; Cornish, T.; Cheng, A.; Gorevan, S.; Niemann, H.; Harpold, D.; Rafeek, S.; Yucht, D.

We present details of an instrument under development for potential NASA missions to planets and small bodies. The instrument comprises a dual ionization source (laser and electron impact) time-of-flight mass spectrometer (TOF-MS) and a carousel sam- ple handling system for in situ analysis of solid materials acquired by, e.g., a coring drill. This DSTOF instrument could be deployed on a fixed lander or a rover, and has an open design that would accommodate measurements by additional instruments. The sample handling system (SHS) is based on a multi-well carousel, originally de- signed for Champollion/DS4. Solid samples, in the form of drill cores or as loose chips or fines, are inserted through an access port, sealed in vacuum, and transported around the carousel to a pyrolysis cell and/or directly to the TOF-MS inlet. Samples at the TOF-MS inlet are xy-addressable for laser or optical microprobe. Cups may be ejected from their holders for analyzing multiple samples or caching them for return. Samples are analyzed with laser desorption and evolved-gas/electron-impact sources. The dual ion source permits studies of elemental, isotopic, and molecular composition of unprepared samples with a single mass spectrometer. Pulsed laser desorption per- mits the measurement of abundance and isotope ratios of refractory elements, as well as the detection of high-mass organic molecules in solid samples. Evolved gas analysis permits similar measurements of the more volatile species in solids and aerosols. The TOF-MS is based on previous miniature prototypes at JHU/APL that feature high sensitivity and a wide mass range. The laser mode, in which the sample cup is directly below the TOF-MS inlet, permits both ablation and desorption measurements, to cover elemental and molecular species, respectively. In the evolved gas mode, sample cups are raised into a small pyrolysis cell and heated, producing a neutral gas that is elec- tron ionized and pulsed into the TOF-MS. (Any imaging and laser microprobe studies would necessarily precede the pyrolysis step to assure that the grain-scale composition is captured.)

Dating the Martian meteorite Zagami by the ⁸⁷Rb-⁸⁷Sr isochron method with a prototype in situ resonance ionization mass spectrometer.

PubMed

Anderson, F Scott; Levine, Jonathan; Whitaker, Tom J

2015-01-30

The geologic history of the Solar System builds on an extensive record of impact flux models, crater counts, and ~270 kg of lunar samples analyzed in terrestrial laboratories. However, estimates of impactor flux may be biased by the fact that most of the dated Apollo samples were only tenuously connected to an assumed geologic context. Moreover, uncertainties in the modeled cratering rates are significant enough to lead to estimated errors for dates on Mars and the Moon of ~1 Ga. Given the great cost of sample return missions, combined with the need to sample multiple terrains on multiple planets, we have developed a prototype instrument that can be used for in situ dating to better constrain the age of planetary samples. We demonstrate the first use of laser ablation resonance ionization mass spectrometry for (87)Rb-(87)Sr isochron dating of geological specimens. The demands of accuracy and precision have required us to meet challenges including regulation of the ambient temperature, measurement of appropriate backgrounds, sufficient ablation laser intensity, avoidance of the defocusing effect of the plasma created by ablation pulses, and shielding of our detector from atoms and ions of other elements. To test whether we could meaningfully date planetary materials, we have analyzed a piece of the Martian meteorite Zagami. In each of four separate measurements we obtained (87)Rb-(87)Sr isochron ages for Zagami consistent with its published age, and, in both of two measurements that reached completion, we obtained better than 200 Ma precision. Combining all our data into a single isochron with 581 spot analyses gives an (87)Rb-(87)Sr age for this specimen of 360 ±90 Ma. Our analyses of the Zagami meteorite represent the first successful application of resonance ionization mass spectrometry to isochron geochronology. Furthermore, the technique is miniaturizable for spaceflight and in situ dating on other planetary bodies. © 2014 The Authors. Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Dating the Martian meteorite Zagami by the 87Rb-87Sr isochron method with a prototype in situ resonance ionization mass spectrometer

PubMed Central

Scott Anderson, F; Levine, Jonathan; Whitaker, Tom J

2015-01-01

RATIONALE The geologic history of the Solar System builds on an extensive record of impact flux models, crater counts, and ∼270 kg of lunar samples analyzed in terrestrial laboratories. However, estimates of impactor flux may be biased by the fact that most of the dated Apollo samples were only tenuously connected to an assumed geologic context. Moreover, uncertainties in the modeled cratering rates are significant enough to lead to estimated errors for dates on Mars and the Moon of ∼1 Ga. Given the great cost of sample return missions, combined with the need to sample multiple terrains on multiple planets, we have developed a prototype instrument that can be used for in situ dating to better constrain the age of planetary samples. METHODS We demonstrate the first use of laser ablation resonance ionization mass spectrometry for 87Rb-87Sr isochron dating of geological specimens. The demands of accuracy and precision have required us to meet challenges including regulation of the ambient temperature, measurement of appropriate backgrounds, sufficient ablation laser intensity, avoidance of the defocusing effect of the plasma created by ablation pulses, and shielding of our detector from atoms and ions of other elements. RESULTS To test whether we could meaningfully date planetary materials, we have analyzed a piece of the Martian meteorite Zagami. In each of four separate measurements we obtained 87Rb-87Sr isochron ages for Zagami consistent with its published age, and, in both of two measurements that reached completion, we obtained better than 200 Ma precision. Combining all our data into a single isochron with 581 spot analyses gives an 87Rb-87Sr age for this specimen of 360 ±90 Ma. CONCLUSIONS Our analyses of the Zagami meteorite represent the first successful application of resonance ionization mass spectrometry to isochron geochronology. Furthermore, the technique is miniaturizable for spaceflight and in situ dating on other planetary bodies. © 2014 The Authors. Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. PMID:25641494

Aerosol detection efficiency in inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hubbard, Joshua A.; Zigmond, Joseph A.

2016-05-01

An electrostatic size classification technique was used to segregate particles of known composition prior to being injected into an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS). Size-segregated particles were counted with a condensation nuclei counter as well as sampled with an ICP-MS. By injecting particles of known size, composition, and aerosol concentration into the ICP-MS, efficiencies of the order of magnitude aerosol detection were calculated, and the particle size dependencies for volatile and refractory species were quantified. Similar to laser ablation ICP-MS, aerosol detection efficiency was defined as the rate at which atoms were detected in the ICP-MS normalized by the rate at which atoms were injected in the form of particles. This method adds valuable insight into the development of technologies like laser ablation ICP-MS where aerosol particles (of relatively unknown size and gas concentration) are generated during ablation and then transported into the plasma of an ICP-MS. In this study, we characterized aerosol detection efficiencies of volatile species gold and silver along with refractory species aluminum oxide, cerium oxide, and yttrium oxide. Aerosols were generated with electrical mobility diameters ranging from 100 to 1000 nm. In general, it was observed that refractory species had lower aerosol detection efficiencies than volatile species, and there were strong dependencies on particle size and plasma torch residence time. Volatile species showed a distinct transition point at which aerosol detection efficiency began decreasing with increasing particle size. This critical diameter indicated the largest particle size for which complete particle detection should be expected and agreed with theories published in other works. Aerosol detection efficiencies also displayed power law dependencies on particle size. Aerosol detection efficiencies ranged from 10- 5 to 10- 11. Free molecular heat and mass transfer theory was applied, but evaporative phenomena were not sufficient to explain the dependence of aerosol detection on particle diameter. Additional work is needed to correlate experimental data with theory for metal-oxides where thermodynamic property data are sparse relative to pure elements. Lastly, when matrix effects and the diffusion of ions inside the plasma were considered, mass loading was concluded to have had an effect on the dependence of detection efficiency on particle diameter.

X-ray driven implosions at ignition relevant velocities on the National Ignition Facility

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Meezan, N. B.; MacKinnon, A. J.; Hicks, D. G.

2013-05-15

Backlit convergent ablator experiments on the National Ignition Facility [E. I. Moses et al., Phys. Plasmas 16, 041006 (2009)] are indirect drive implosions that study the inflight dynamics of an imploding capsule. Side-on, backlit radiography provides data used by the National Ignition Campaign to measure time-dependent properties of the capsule ablator including its center of mass radius, velocity, and unablated mass. Previously, Callahan [D. A. Callahan et al., Phys. Plasmas 19, 056305 (2012)] and Hicks [D. H. Hicks et al., Phys. Plasmas 19, 122702 (2012)] reported backlit convergent ablator experiments demonstrating velocities approaching those required for ignition. This paper focusesmore » on implosion performance data in the “rocket curve” plane, velocity vs. ablator mass. These rocket curve data, along with supporting numerical simulations, show that the nominal 195 μm-thick ignition capsule would reach the ignition velocity goal V = 370 km/s with low ablator mass remaining–below the goal of M = 0.25 mg. This finding led to experiments with thicker capsule ablators. A recent symmetry capsule experiment with a 20 μm thicker capsule driven by 520 TW, 1.86 MJ laser pulse (along with a companion backlit convergent ablator experiment) appears to have demonstrated V≥350 km/s with ablator mass remaining above the ignition goal.« less

Numerical Simulation of Thermal Response and Ablation Behavior of a Hybrid Carbon/Carbon Composite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Bai; Li, Xudong

2017-09-01

The thermal response and ablation behavior of a hybrid carbon/carbon (C/C) composite are studied herein by using a numerical model. This model is based on the energy- and mass-conservation principles as well as on the calculation of the thermophysical properties of materials. The thermal response and ablation behavior are simulated from the perspective of the matrix and fiber components of a hybrid C/C composite. The thermophysical properties during ablation are calculated, and a moving boundary is implemented to consider the recession of the ablation surface. The temperature distribution, thermophysical properties, char layer thickness, linear ablation rate, mass flow rate of the pyrolysis gases, and mass loss of the hybrid C/C composite are quantitatively predicted. This numerical study describing the thermal response and ablation behavior provides a fundamental understanding of the ablative mechanism of a hybrid C/C composite, serving as a reference and basis for further designs and optimizations of thermoprotective materials.

Numerical Simulation of Thermal Response and Ablation Behavior of a Hybrid Carbon/Carbon Composite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Bai; Li, Xudong

2018-06-01

The thermal response and ablation behavior of a hybrid carbon/carbon (C/C) composite are studied herein by using a numerical model. This model is based on the energy- and mass-conservation principles as well as on the calculation of the thermophysical properties of materials. The thermal response and ablation behavior are simulated from the perspective of the matrix and fiber components of a hybrid C/C composite. The thermophysical properties during ablation are calculated, and a moving boundary is implemented to consider the recession of the ablation surface. The temperature distribution, thermophysical properties, char layer thickness, linear ablation rate, mass flow rate of the pyrolysis gases, and mass loss of the hybrid C/C composite are quantitatively predicted. This numerical study describing the thermal response and ablation behavior provides a fundamental understanding of the ablative mechanism of a hybrid C/C composite, serving as a reference and basis for further designs and optimizations of thermoprotective materials.

Effect of secondary organic aerosol coating thickness on the real-time detection and characterization of biomass-burning soot by two particle mass spectrometers

DOE PAGES

Ahern, Adam T.; Subramanian, Ramachandran; Saliba, Georges; ...

2016-12-22

Biomass burning is a large source of light-absorbing refractory black carbon (rBC) particles with a wide range of morphologies and sizes. The net radiative forcing from these particles is strongly dependent on the amount and composition of non-light-absorbing material internally mixed with the rBC and on the morphology of the mixed particles. Understanding how the mixing state and morphology of biomass-burning aerosol evolves in the atmosphere is critical for constraining the influence of these particles on radiative forcing and climate. We investigated the response of two commercial laser-based particle mass spectrometers, the vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) ablation LAAPTOF and the IRmore » vaporization SP-AMS, to monodisperse biomass-burning particles as we sequentially coated the particles with secondary organic aerosol (SOA) from α-pinene ozonolysis. We studied three mobility-selected soot core sizes, each with a number of successively thicker coatings of SOA applied. Using IR laser vaporization, the SP-AMS had different changes in sensitivity to rBC compared to potassium as a function of applied SOA coatings. We show that this is due to different effective beam widths for the IR laser vaporization region of potassium versus black carbon. The SP-AMS's sensitivity to black carbon (BC) mass was not observed to plateau following successive SOA coatings, despite achieving high OA : BC mass ratios greater than 9. We also measured the ion fragmentation pattern of biomass-burning rBC and found it changed only slightly with increasing SOA mass. The average organic matter ion signal measured by the LAAPTOF demonstrated a positive correlation with the condensed SOA mass on individual particles, despite the inhomogeneity of the particle core compositions. This demonstrates that the LAAPTOF can obtain quantitative mass measurements of aged soot-particle composition from realistic biomass-burning particles with complex morphologies and composition.« less

Effect of secondary organic aerosol coating thickness on the real-time detection and characterization of biomass-burning soot by two particle mass spectrometers

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ahern, Adam T.; Subramanian, Ramachandran; Saliba, Georges

Biomass burning is a large source of light-absorbing refractory black carbon (rBC) particles with a wide range of morphologies and sizes. The net radiative forcing from these particles is strongly dependent on the amount and composition of non-light-absorbing material internally mixed with the rBC and on the morphology of the mixed particles. Understanding how the mixing state and morphology of biomass-burning aerosol evolves in the atmosphere is critical for constraining the influence of these particles on radiative forcing and climate. We investigated the response of two commercial laser-based particle mass spectrometers, the vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) ablation LAAPTOF and the IRmore » vaporization SP-AMS, to monodisperse biomass-burning particles as we sequentially coated the particles with secondary organic aerosol (SOA) from α-pinene ozonolysis. We studied three mobility-selected soot core sizes, each with a number of successively thicker coatings of SOA applied. Using IR laser vaporization, the SP-AMS had different changes in sensitivity to rBC compared to potassium as a function of applied SOA coatings. We show that this is due to different effective beam widths for the IR laser vaporization region of potassium versus black carbon. The SP-AMS's sensitivity to black carbon (BC) mass was not observed to plateau following successive SOA coatings, despite achieving high OA : BC mass ratios greater than 9. We also measured the ion fragmentation pattern of biomass-burning rBC and found it changed only slightly with increasing SOA mass. The average organic matter ion signal measured by the LAAPTOF demonstrated a positive correlation with the condensed SOA mass on individual particles, despite the inhomogeneity of the particle core compositions. This demonstrates that the LAAPTOF can obtain quantitative mass measurements of aged soot-particle composition from realistic biomass-burning particles with complex morphologies and composition.« less

Study on ablation behavior of silicone rubber based insulation material under the condition of boron oxide particles erosion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zha, B. L.; Shi, Y. A.; Wang, J. J.; Su, Q. D.

2018-01-01

Self-designed oxygen-kerosene ablation system was employed to study the ablation characteristics of silicone rubber based thermal insulation materials under the condition of boron oxide particles erosion. The ablation test was designed with a mass fraction of 1.69% boron oxide particles and particles-free, the microstructure and elemental analysis of the specimens before and after ablation were carried out by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersion Spectrum (EDS). Experiment results show that the average mass ablation rate of the materials was 0.0099 g•s-1 and the average ablation rate was -0.025 mm•s-1 under the condition of pure gas phase ablation; and the average mass ablation rate of the multiphase ablation test group was 0.1775 g•s-1, whose average ablation rate was 0.437 mm•s-1 during the ablation process, the boron oxide particles would adhere a molten layer on the flame contact surface of the specimen, which covering the pores on the material surface, blocking the infiltration channel for the oxidizing component and slowing down the oxidation loss rate of the material below the surface, but because the particles erosion was the main reason for material depletion, the combined effect of the above both led to the upward material ablation rates of Silicone Rubber.

Development of Processing Techniques for Advanced Thermal Protection Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Selvaduray, Guna; Cox, Michael; Srinivasan, Vijayakumar

1997-01-01

Thermal Protection Materials Branch (TPMB) has been involved in various research programs to improve the properties and structural integrity of the existing aerospace high temperature materials. Specimens from various research programs were brought into the analytical laboratory for the purpose of obtaining and refining the material characterization. The analytical laboratory in TPMB has many different instruments which were utilized to determine the physical and chemical characteristics of materials. Some of the instruments that were utilized by the SJSU students are: Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), X-ray Diffraction Spectrometer (XRD), Fourier Transform-Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Ultra Violet Spectroscopy/Visible Spectroscopy (UV/VIS), Particle Size Analyzer (PSA), and Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometer (ICP-AES). The above mentioned analytical instruments were utilized in the material characterization process of the specimens from research programs such as: aerogel ceramics (I) and (II), X-33 Blankets, ARC-Jet specimens, QUICFIX specimens and gas permeability of lightweight ceramic ablators. In addition to analytical instruments in the analytical laboratory at TPMB, there are several on-going experiments. One particular experiment allows the measurement of permeability of ceramic ablators. From these measurements, physical characteristics of the ceramic ablators can be derived.

Lunar orbital mass spectrometer experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lord, W. P.

1971-01-01

The design, development, manufacture, test and calibration of five lunar orbital mass spectrometers with the four associated ground support equipment test sets are discussed. A mass spectrometer was installed in the Apollo 15 and one in the Apollo 16 Scientific Instrument Module within the Service Module. The Apollo 15 mass spectrometer was operated with collection of 38 hours of mass spectra data during lunar orbit and 50 hours of data were collected during transearth coast. The Apollo 16 mass spectrometer was operated with collection of 76 hours of mass spectra data during lunar orbit. However, the Apollo 16 mass spectrometer was ejected into lunar orbit upon malfunction of spacecraft boom system just prior to transearth insection and no transearth coast data was possible.

Thermal Ablation Modeling for Silicate Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chen, Yih-Kanq

2016-01-01

A general thermal ablation model for silicates is proposed. The model includes the mass losses through the balance between evaporation and condensation, and through the moving molten layer driven by surface shear force and pressure gradient. This model can be applied in the ablation simulation of the meteoroid and the glassy ablator for spacecraft Thermal Protection Systems. Time-dependent axisymmetric computations are performed by coupling the fluid dynamics code, Data-Parallel Line Relaxation program, with the material response code, Two-dimensional Implicit Thermal Ablation simulation program, to predict the mass lost rates and shape change. The predicted mass loss rates will be compared with available data for model validation, and parametric studies will also be performed for meteoroid earth entry conditions.

Measuring Transmission Efficiencies Of Mass Spectrometers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Srivastava, Santosh K.

1989-01-01

Coincidence counts yield absolute efficiencies. System measures mass-dependent transmission efficiencies of mass spectrometers, using coincidence-counting techniques reminiscent of those used for many years in calibration of detectors for subatomic particles. Coincidences between detected ions and electrons producing them counted during operation of mass spectrometer. Under certain assumptions regarding inelastic scattering of electrons, electron/ion-coincidence count is direct measure of transmission efficiency of spectrometer. When fully developed, system compact, portable, and used routinely to calibrate mass spectrometers.

Isotope-ratio measurements of lead in NIST standard reference materials by multiple-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Platzner, I; Ehrlich, S; Halicz, L

2001-07-01

The capability of a second-generation Nu Instruments multiple collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (MC-ICP-MS) has been evaluated for precise and accurate isotope-ratio determinations of lead. Essentially the mass spectrometer is a double-focusing instrument of Nier-Johnson analyzer geometry equipped with a newly designed variable-dispersion ion optical device, enabling the measured ion beams to be focused into a fixed array of Faraday collectors and an ion-counting assembly. NIST SRM Pb 981, 982, and 983 isotopic standards were used. Addition of thallium to the lead standards and subsequent simultaneous measurement of the thallium and lead isotopes enabled correction for mass discrimination, by use of the exponential correction law and 205Tl/203Tl = 2.3875. Six measurements of SRM Pb-982 furnished the results 206Pb/204Pb = 36.7326(68), 207Pb/204Pb = 17.1543(30), 208Pb/204Pb = 36.7249(69), 207Pb/206Pb = 0.46700(1), and 208Pb/206Pb = 0.99979(2); the NIST-certified values were 36.738(37), 17.159(25), 36.744(50), 0.46707(20), and 1.00016(36), respectively. Direct isotope lead analysis in silicates can be performed without any chemical separation. NIST SRM 610 glass was dissolved and introduced into the MC-ICP-MS by means of a micro concentric nebulizer. The ratios observed were in excellent agreement with previously reported data obtained by TIMS and laser ablation MC-ICP-MS, despite the high Ca/Pb concentration ratio (200/1) and the presence of many other elements at levels comparable with that of lead. Approximately 0.2 microg lead are sufficient for isotope analysis with ratio uncertainties between 240 and 530 ppm.

Differentially pumped dual linear quadrupole ion trap mass spectrometer

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Owen, Benjamin C.; Kenttamaa, Hilkka I.

The present disclosure provides a new tandem mass spectrometer and methods of using the same for analyzing charged particles. The differentially pumped dual linear quadrupole ion trap mass spectrometer of the present disclose includes a combination of two linear quadrupole (LQIT) mass spectrometers with differentially pumped vacuum chambers.

Method for calibrating mass spectrometers

DOEpatents

Anderson, Gordon A [Benton City, WA; Brands, Michael D [Richland, WA; Bruce, James E [Schwenksville, PA; Pasa-Tolic, Ljiljana [Richland, WA; Smith, Richard D [Richland, WA

2002-12-24

A method whereby a mass spectra generated by a mass spectrometer is calibrated by shifting the parameters used by the spectrometer to assign masses to the spectra in a manner which reconciles the signal of ions within the spectra having equal mass but differing charge states, or by reconciling ions having known differences in mass to relative values consistent with those known differences. In this manner, the mass spectrometer is calibrated without the need for standards while allowing the generation of a highly accurate mass spectra by the instrument.

Signature of Metallic ion in the upper atmosphere of Mars following the passage of comet C/2013 A1 (Siding Spring)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Benna, M.; Grebowsky, J. M.; Mahaffy, P. R.; Plane, J. M. C.; Yelle, R. V.; Jakosky, B. M.

2017-09-01

The Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN (MAVEN) mission made the first in situ detection of metal ions in the upper atmosphere of Mars. These ions result from the ablation of dust particles from comet Siding Spring. This detection was carried out by the Neutral Gas and Ion Mass Spectrometer (NGIMS) on board the MAVEN spacecraft. Metal ions of Na, Mg, Al, K, Ti, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, and Zn, and possibly of Si, and Ca, were identified in the ion spectra collected at altitudes of 185 km. The measurements revealed that Na ion was the most abundant species, and that the remaining metals were depleted with respect to the CI (type 1 carbonaceous Chondrites) abundance of Na ion.

On the design of the NIF Continuum Spectrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thorn, D. B.; MacPhee, A.; Ayers, J.; Galbraith, J.; Hardy, C. M.; Izumi, N.; Bradley, D. K.; Pickworth, L. A.; Bachmann, B.; Kozioziemski, B.; Landen, O.; Clark, D.; Schneider, M. B.; Hill, K. W.; Bitter, M.; Nagel, S.; Bell, P. M.; Person, S.; Khater, H. Y.; Smith, C.; Kilkenny, J.

2017-08-01

In inertial confinement fusion (ICF) experiments on the National Ignition Facility (NIF), measurements of average ion temperature using DT neutron time of flight broadening and of DD neutrons do not show the same apparent temperature. Some of this may be due to time and space dependent temperature profiles in the imploding capsule which are not taken into account in the analysis. As such, we are attempting to measure the electron temperature by recording the free-free electron-ion scattering-spectrum from the tail of the Maxwellian temperature distribution. This will be accomplished with the new NIF Continuum Spectrometer (ConSpec) which spans the x-ray range of 20 keV to 30 keV (where any opacity corrections from the remaining mass of the ablator shell are negligible) and will be sensitive to temperatures between ˜ 3 keV and 6 keV. The optical design of the ConSpec is designed to be adaptable to an x-ray streak camera to record time resolved free-free electron continuum spectra for direct measurement of the dT/dt evolution across the burn width of a DT plasma. The spectrometer is a conically bent Bragg crystal in a focusing geometry that allows for the dispersion plane to be perpendicular to the spectrometer axis. Additionally, to address the spatial temperature dependence, both time integrated and time resolved pinhole and penumbral imaging will be provided along the same polar angle. The optical and mechanical design of the instrument is presented along with estimates for the dispersion, solid angle, photometric sensitivity, and performance.

Analysis of magnesium and copper in aluminum alloys with high repetition rate laser-ablation spark-induced breakdown spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Xiaoyong; Dong, Bo; Chen, Yuqi; Li, Runhua; Wang, Fujuan; Li, Jiaoyang; Cai, Zhigang

2018-03-01

In order to improve the analytical speed and performance of laser-ablation based atomic emission spectroscopy, high repetition rate laser-ablation spark-induced breakdown spectroscopy (HRR LA-SIBS) was first developed. Magnesium and copper in aluminum alloys were analyzed with this technique. In the experiments, the fundamental output of an acousto-optically Q-switched Nd:YAG laser operated at 1 kHz repetition rate with low pulse energy and 120 ns pulse width was used to ablate the samples and the plasma emission was enhanced by spark discharge. The spectra were recorded with a compact fiber spectrometer with non-intensified charge-coupled device in non-gating mode. Different parameters relative with analytical performance, such as capacitance, voltage, laser pulse energy were optimized. Under current experimental conditions, calibration curves of magnesium and copper in aluminum alloys were built and limits of detection of them were determined to be 14.0 and 9.9 ppm by HRR LA-SIBS, respectively, which were 8-12 folds better than that achieved by HRR LA under similar experimental condition without spark discharge. The analytical sensitivities are close to those obtained with conventional LIBS but with improved analytical speed as well as possibility of using compact fiber spectrometer. Under high repetition rate operation, the noise level can be decreased and the analytical reproducibility can be improved obviously by averaging multiple measurements within short time. High repetition rate operation of laser-ablation spark-induced breakdown spectroscopy is very helpful for improving analytical speed. It is possible to find applications in fast elements analysis, especially fast two-dimension elemental mapping of solid samples.

Experimental scaling law for mass ablation rate from a Sn plasma generated by a 1064 nm laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burdt, Russell A.; Yuspeh, Sam; Sequoia, Kevin L.; Tao, Yezheng; Tillack, Mark S.; Najmabadi, Farrokh

2009-08-01

The ablation depth in planar Sn targets irradiated with a pulsed 1064 nm laser was investigated over laser intensities from 3×1011 to 2×1012 W/cm2. The ablation depth was measured by irradiating a thin layer of Sn evaporated onto a Si wafer, and looking for signatures of Si ions in the expanding plasma with spectroscopic and particle diagnostics. It was found that ablation depth scales with laser intensity to the (5/9)th power, which is consistent with analytical models of steady-state laser ablation, as well as empirical formulae from previous studies of mass ablation rate in overlapping parameter space. In addition, the scaling of mass ablation rate with atomic number of the target as given by empirical formulae in previous studies using targets such as C and Al, are shown to remain valid for the higher atomic number of the target (Z =50) used in these experiments.

Tables of thermospheric temperature, density and composition derived from satellite and ground based measurements. Volume 1: Ap=4

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hedin, A. E.

1979-01-01

The tables contain the neutral temperature, neutral densities for N2, O2, O, Ar, He and H, mean molecular weight, and total mass density as predicted by the Mass Spectrometer and Incoherent Scatter empirical thermosphere model for selected altitudes, latitudes, local times, days and other geophysical conditions. The model is based on a least squares fit to density data from mass spectrometers on five satellites and temperature data from four incoherent scatter stations, providing coverage for most of solar sunspot cycle 20. Included in the model data base are longitudinally average N3, He, and O densities from the OGO-6 mass spectrometer longitudinally average N2, He, O and Ar densities from the AEROS-A (NATE) mass spectrometer the N2, He, O, and Ar densities from the San Marco 3 mass spectrometer the N2 densities from the AE-B mass spectrometer and the N2, He, O, and Ar densities from the AE-C (OSS, NACE, NATE) mass spectrometers. The O2 and H densities are inferred using ion mass spectrometer data from AE-C (BIMS). Neutral exospheric temperature data are included from Arecibo, St. Santin, Millstone Hill and Jicamarca.

Ultra High Mass Range Mass Spectrometer System

DOEpatents

Reilly, Peter T. A. [Knoxville, TN

2005-12-06

Applicant's present invention comprises mass spectrometer systems that operate in a mass range from 1 to 10.sup.16 DA. The mass spectrometer system comprising an inlet system comprising an aerodynamic lens system, a reverse jet being a gas flux generated in an annulus moving in a reverse direction and a multipole ion guide; a digital ion trap; and a thermal vaporization/ionization detector system. Applicant's present invention further comprises a quadrupole mass spectrometer system comprising an inlet system having a quadrupole mass filter and a thermal vaporization/ionization detector system. Applicant's present invention further comprises an inlet system for use with a mass spectrometer system, a method for slowing energetic particles using an inlet system. Applicant's present invention also comprises a detector device and a method for detecting high mass charged particles.

Zero voltage mass spectrometry probes and systems

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cooks, Robert Graham; Wleklinski, Michael Stanley; Bag, Soumabha

The invention generally relates to zero volt mass spectrometry probes and systems. In certain embodiments, the invention provides a system including a mass spectrometry probe including a porous material, and a mass spectrometer (bench-top or miniature mass spectrometer). The system operates without an application of voltage to the probe. In certain embodiments, the probe is oriented such that a distal end faces an inlet of the mass spectrometer. In other embodiments, the distal end of the probe is 5 mm or less from an inlet of the mass spectrometer.

First insights on the organic species from the high resolution mass spectrometer ROSINA DFMS on-board the Rosetta spacecraft

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Le Roy, L.; Altwegg, K.; Berthelier, J. J.; Calmonte, U.; Dhooghe, F.; Fiethe, B.; Fuselier, S.; Gombosi, T. I.; Rubin, M.; Tzou, C. Y.

2014-12-01

Starting in August 2014, the ROSINA experiment will characterize the composition and dynamics of 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko's coma. ROSINA consists of a suite of three instruments: a pressure sensor (COPS: COmetary Pressure Sensor) and two mass spectrometers: the Reflectron Time of Flight mass spectrometer (RTOF) and the Double Focusing Mass Spectrometer (DFMS). Here we will focus on the first results obtained by DFMS, the high-resolution mass spectrometer of ROSINA. DFMS is a traditional magnetic mass spectrometer that combines an electrostatic analyzer for energy analysis with a magnet for momentum analysis. To date, DFMS is the highest mass resolution mass spectrometer in space, with resolution (m/Δm = 3000 at 1% of the peak height at 28 amu/q). It will be able to resolve CO from N2 at m/z= 28 amu/q or 12CH and 13C at m/z= 13 amu/q. We will present the first results of DFMS: the detection of organic species and their implication for the origin of cometary material.

Heat sink effect on tumor ablation characteristics as observed in monopolar radiofrequency, bipolar radiofrequency, and microwave, using ex vivo calf liver model.

PubMed

Pillai, Krishna; Akhter, Javid; Chua, Terence C; Shehata, Mena; Alzahrani, Nayef; Al-Alem, Issan; Morris, David L

2015-03-01

Thermal ablation of liver tumors near large blood vessels is affected by the cooling effect of blood flow, leading to incomplete ablation. Hence, we conducted a comparative investigation of heat sink effect in monopolar (MP) and bipolar (BP) radiofrequency ablation (RFA), and microwave (MW) ablation devices.With a perfused calf liver, the ablative performances (volume, mass, density, dimensions), with and without heat sink, were measured. Heat sink was present when the ablative tip of the probes were 8.0 mm close to a major hepatic vein and absent when >30 mm away. Temperatures (T1 and T2) on either side of the hepatic vein near the tip of the probes, heating probe temperature (T3), outlet perfusate temperature (T4), and ablation time were monitored.With or without heat sink, BP radiofrequency ablated a larger volume and mass, compared with MP RFA or MW ablation, with latter device producing the highest density of tissue ablated. MW ablation produced an ellipsoidal shape while radiofrequency devices produced spheres.Percentage heat sink effect in Bipolar radiofrequency : Mono-polar radiofrequency : Microwave was (Volume) 33:41:22; (mass) 23:56:34; (density) 9.0:26:18; and (relative elipscity) 5.8:12.9:1.3, indicating that BP and MW devices were less affected.Percentage heat sink effect on time (minutes) to reach maximum temperature (W) = 13.28:9.2:29.8; time at maximum temperature (X) is 87:66:16.66; temperature difference (Y) between the thermal probes (T3) and the temperature (T1 + T2)/2 on either side of the hepatic vessel was 100:87:20; and temperature difference between the (T1 + T2)/2 and temperature of outlet circulating solution (T4), Z was 20.33:30.23:37.5.MW and BP radiofrequencies were less affected by heat sink while MP RFA was the most affected. With a single ablation, BP radiofrequency ablated a larger volume and mass regardless of heat sink.

Heat Sink Effect on Tumor Ablation Characteristics as Observed in Monopolar Radiofrequency, Bipolar Radiofrequency, and Microwave, Using Ex Vivo Calf Liver Model

PubMed Central

Pillai, Krishna; Akhter, Javid; Chua, Terence C.; Shehata, Mena; Alzahrani, Nayef; Al-Alem, Issan; Morris, David L.

2015-01-01

Abstract Thermal ablation of liver tumors near large blood vessels is affected by the cooling effect of blood flow, leading to incomplete ablation. Hence, we conducted a comparative investigation of heat sink effect in monopolar (MP) and bipolar (BP) radiofrequency ablation (RFA), and microwave (MW) ablation devices. With a perfused calf liver, the ablative performances (volume, mass, density, dimensions), with and without heat sink, were measured. Heat sink was present when the ablative tip of the probes were 8.0 mm close to a major hepatic vein and absent when >30 mm away. Temperatures (T1 and T2) on either side of the hepatic vein near the tip of the probes, heating probe temperature (T3), outlet perfusate temperature (T4), and ablation time were monitored. With or without heat sink, BP radiofrequency ablated a larger volume and mass, compared with MP RFA or MW ablation, with latter device producing the highest density of tissue ablated. MW ablation produced an ellipsoidal shape while radiofrequency devices produced spheres. Percentage heat sink effect in Bipolar radiofrequency : Mono-polar radiofrequency : Microwave was (Volume) 33:41:22; (mass) 23:56:34; (density) 9.0:26:18; and (relative elipscity) 5.8:12.9:1.3, indicating that BP and MW devices were less affected. Percentage heat sink effect on time (minutes) to reach maximum temperature (W) = 13.28:9.2:29.8; time at maximum temperature (X) is 87:66:16.66; temperature difference (Y) between the thermal probes (T3) and the temperature (T1 + T2)/2 on either side of the hepatic vessel was 100:87:20; and temperature difference between the (T1 + T2)/2 and temperature of outlet circulating solution (T4), Z was 20.33:30.23:37.5. MW and BP radiofrequencies were less affected by heat sink while MP RFA was the most affected. With a single ablation, BP radiofrequency ablated a larger volume and mass regardless of heat sink. PMID:25738477

Aerosol detection efficiency in inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

DOE PAGES

Hubbard, Joshua A.; Zigmond, Joseph A.

2016-03-02

We used an electrostatic size classification technique to segregate particles of known composition prior to being injected into an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS). Moreover, we counted size-segregated particles with a condensation nuclei counter as well as sampled with an ICP-MS. By injecting particles of known size, composition, and aerosol concentration into the ICP-MS, efficiencies of the order of magnitude aerosol detection were calculated, and the particle size dependencies for volatile and refractory species were quantified. Similar to laser ablation ICP-MS, aerosol detection efficiency was defined as the rate at which atoms were detected in the ICP-MS normalized bymore » the rate at which atoms were injected in the form of particles. This method adds valuable insight into the development of technologies like laser ablation ICP-MS where aerosol particles (of relatively unknown size and gas concentration) are generated during ablation and then transported into the plasma of an ICP-MS. In this study, we characterized aerosol detection efficiencies of volatile species gold and silver along with refractory species aluminum oxide, cerium oxide, and yttrium oxide. Aerosols were generated with electrical mobility diameters ranging from 100 to 1000 nm. In general, it was observed that refractory species had lower aerosol detection efficiencies than volatile species, and there were strong dependencies on particle size and plasma torch residence time. Volatile species showed a distinct transition point at which aerosol detection efficiency began decreasing with increasing particle size. This critical diameter indicated the largest particle size for which complete particle detection should be expected and agreed with theories published in other works. Aerosol detection efficiencies also displayed power law dependencies on particle size. Aerosol detection efficiencies ranged from 10 -5 to 10 -11. Free molecular heat and mass transfer theory was applied, but evaporative phenomena were not sufficient to explain the dependence of aerosol detection on particle diameter. Additional work is needed to correlate experimental data with theory for metal-oxides where thermodynamic property data are sparse relative to pure elements. Finally, when matrix effects and the diffusion of ions inside the plasma were considered, mass loading was concluded to have had an effect on the dependence of detection efficiency on particle diameter.« less

Nanosecond laser-metal ablation at different ambient conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elsied, Ahmed M.; Dieffenbach, Payson C.; Diwakar, Prasoon K.; Hassanein, Ahmed

2018-05-01

Ablation of metals under different ambient conditions and laser fluences, was investigated through series of experiments. A 1064 nm, 6 ns Nd:YAG laser was used to ablate 1 mm thick metal targets with laser energy ranging from 2 mJ to 300 mJ. The experiments were designed to study the effect of material properties, laser fluence, ambient gas, and ambient pressure on laser-metal ablation. The first experiment was conducted under vacuum to study the effect of laser fluence and material properties on metal ablation, using a wide range of laser fluences (2 J/cm2 up to 300 J/cm2) and two different targets, Al and W. The second experiment was conducted at atmospheric pressure using two different ambient gases air and argon, to understand the effect of ambient gas on laser-metal ablation process. The third experiment was conducted at two different pressures (10 Torr and 760 Torr) using the same ambient gas to investigate the effect of ambient pressure on laser-metal ablation. To compare the different ablation processes, the amount of mass ablated, ablation depth, crater profile and melt formation were measured using White Light Profilometer (WLP). The experimental results show that at low laser fluence: the ablated mass, ablation depth, and height of molten layer follow a logarithmic function of the incident laser fluence. While, at high laser fluence they follow a linear function. This dependence on laser fluence was found to be independent on ambient conditions and irradiated material. The effect of ambient pressure was more pronounced than the effect of ambient gas type. Plasma shielding effect was found to be very pronounced in the presence of ambient gas and led to significant reduction in the total mass ablation.

Method for increasing the dynamic range of mass spectrometers

DOEpatents

Belov, Mikhail; Smith, Richard D.; Udseth, Harold R.

2004-09-07

A method for enhancing the dynamic range of a mass spectrometer by first passing a sample of ions through the mass spectrometer having a quadrupole ion filter, whereupon the intensities of the mass spectrum of the sample are measured. From the mass spectrum, ions within this sample are then identified for subsequent ejection. As further sampling introduces more ions into the mass spectrometer, the appropriate rf voltages are applied to a quadrupole ion filter, thereby selectively ejecting the undesired ions previously identified. In this manner, the desired ions may be collected for longer periods of time in an ion trap, thus allowing better collection and subsequent analysis of the desired ions. The ion trap used for accumulation may be the same ion trap used for mass analysis, in which case the mass analysis is performed directly, or it may be an intermediate trap. In the case where collection is an intermediate trap, the desired ions are accumulated in the intermediate trap, and then transferred to a separate mass analyzer. The present invention finds particular utility where the mass analysis is performed in an ion trap mass spectrometer or a Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer.

Fe(+) chemical ionization of peptides.

PubMed

Speir, J P; Gorman, G S; Amster, I J

1993-02-01

Laser-desorbed peptide neutral molecules were allowed to react with Fe(+) in a Fourier transform mass spectrometer, using the technique of laser desorption/chemical ionization. The Fe(+) ions are formed by laser ablation of a steel target, as well as by dissociative charge-exchange ionization of ferrocene with Ne(+). Prior to reaction with laser-desorbed peptide molecules, Fe(+) ions undergo 20-100 thermalizin collisions with xenon to reduce the population of excited-state metal ion species. The Fe(+) ions that have not experienced thermalizing collisions undergo charge exchange with peptide molecules. Iron ions that undergo thermalizing collisions before they are allowed to react with peptides are found to undergo charge exchange and to form adduct species [M + Fe(+)] and fragment ions that result from the loss of small, stable molecules, such as H2O, CO, and CO2, from the metal ion-peptide complex.

Study and evaluation of impulse mass spectrometers for ion analysis in the D and E regions of the ionosphere

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kendall, B. R.

1979-01-01

Theoretical and numerical analyses were made of planar, cylindrical and spherical electrode time-of-flight mass spectrometers in order to optimize their operating conditions. A numerical analysis of potential barrier gating in time-of-flight spectrometers was also made. The results were used in the design of several small mass spectrometers. These were constructed and tested in a laboratory space simulator. Detailed experimental studies of a miniature cylindrical electrode time of flight mass spectrometer and of a miniature hemispherical electrode time of flight mass spectrometer were made. The extremely high sensitivity of these instruments and their ability to operate at D region pressures with an open source make them ideal instruments for D region ion composition measurements.

Ablation and deceleration of mass-driver launched projectiles for space disposal of nuclear wastes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, C.; Bowen, S. W.

1981-01-01

The energy cost of launching a projectile containing nuclear waste is two orders of magnitude lower with a mass driver than with a typical rocket system. A mass driver scheme will be feasible, however, only if ablation and deceleration are within certain tolerable limits. It is shown that if a hemisphere-cylinder-shaped projectile protected thermally with a graphite nose is launched vertically to attain a velocity of 17 km/sec at an altitude of 40 km, the mass loss from ablation during atmospheric flight will be less than 0.1 ton, provided the radius of the projectile is under 20 cm and the projectile's mass is of the order of 1 ton. The velocity loss from drag will vary from 0.4 to 30 km/sec, depending on the mass and radius of the projectile, the smaller velocity loss corresponding to large mass and small radius. Ablation is always within a tolerable range for schemes using a mass driver launcher to dispose of nuclear wastes outside the solar system. Deceleration can also be held in the tolerable range if the mass and diameter of the projectile are properly chosen.

A compact E × B filter: A multi-collector cycloidal focusing mass spectrometer

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Blase, Ryan C., E-mail: rblase@swri.edu; Miller, Greg; Brockwell, Tim

2015-10-15

A compact E × B mass spectrometer is presented. The mass spectrometer presented is termed a “perfect focus” mass spectrometer as the resolution of the device is independent of both the initial direction and energy of the ions (spatial and energy independent). The mass spectrometer is small in size (∼10.7 in.{sup 3}) and weight (∼2 kg), making it an attractive candidate for portability when using small, permanent magnets. A multi-collector Faraday cup design allows for the detection of multiple ion beams in discrete collectors simultaneously; providing the opportunity for isotope ratio monitoring. The mass resolution of the device is aroundmore » 400 through narrow collector slits and the sensitivity of the device follows expected theoretical calculations of the ion current produced in the electron impact ion source. Example mass spectra obtained from the cycloidal focusing mass spectrometer are presented as well as information on mass discrimination based on instrumental parameters and isotope ratio monitoring of certain ion signals in separate Faraday cups.« less

Application of a mass spectrometer as a capnograph

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elokhin, V. A.; Ershov, T. D.; Levshankov, A. I.; Nikolaev, V. I.; Elizarov, A. Yu.

2010-12-01

The feasibility of using a mass spectrometer for monitoring the carbon dioxide and inhalational anesthetic concentrations in the breathing circuit of an apparatus for inhalational anesthesia are demonstrated. Mass-spectrometric data for the CO2 and inhalational anesthetic concentrations are compared with related optical data. The advantages of the mass spectrometer as a capnograph over the optical spectrometer are indicated. The variation of the inhalational anesthetic content in expired air is shown to depend on the muscle relaxation efficiency.

Applications of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry in materials science

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Becker, Johanna Sabine

2002-12-01

Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and laser ablation ICP-MS (LA-ICP-MS) have been applied as the most important inorganic mass spectrometric techniques having multielemental capability for the characterization of solid samples in materials science. ICP-MS is used for the sensitive determination of trace and ultratrace elements in digested solutions of solid samples or of process chemicals (ultrapure water, acids and organic solutions) for the semiconductor industry with detection limits down to sub-picogram per liter levels. Whereas ICP-MS on solid samples (e.g. high-purity ceramics) sometimes requires time-consuming sample preparation for its application in materials science, and the risk of contamination is a serious drawback, a fast, direct determination of trace elements in solid materials without any sample preparation by LA-ICP-MS is possible. The detection limits for the direct analysis of solid samples by LA-ICP-MS have been determined for many elements down to the nanogram per gram range. A deterioration of detection limits was observed for elements where interferences with polyatomic ions occur. The inherent interference problem can often be solved by applying a double-focusing sector field mass spectrometer at higher mass resolution or by collision-induced reactions of polyatomic ions with a collision gas using an ICP-MS fitted with collision cell. The main problem of LA-ICP-MS is quantification if no suitable standard reference materials with a similar matrix composition are available. The calibration problem in LA-ICP-MS can be solved using on-line solution-based calibration, and different procedures, such as external calibration and standard addition, have been discussed with respect to their application in materials science. The application of isotope dilution in solution-based calibration for trace metal determination in small amounts of noble metals has been developed as a new calibration strategy. This review discusses new analytical developments and possible applications of ICP-MS and LA-ICP-MS for the quantitative determination of trace elements and in surface analysis for materials science.

Diffusivities of Redox-Sensitive Elements in Basalt vs. Oxygen Fugacity Determined by LA-ICP-MS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Szumila, Ian; Danielson, Lisa; Trail, Dustin

2017-01-01

Several diffusion experiments were conducted in a piston cylinder device across a range of oxygen fugacities (FMQ-3 FMQ-1.2, FMQ+6) at 1 GPa and 1300 C. This was done to explore the effects of oxygen fugacity (fO2) on diffusivity of redox sensitive trace elements. This allows investigation of how these elements diffuse across the fO2 range encountered in different reservoirs on planets and moons in our solar system. The University of Rochester LA-ICP-MS system was used for analysis of samples. Analyses were conducted using an Agilent 7900 quadrupole mass spectrometer connected to a Photon Machines 193 nm G2 laser ablation (LA) system equipped with a HelEx 2-volume sample chamber. Spots used were 35 micrometers circles spaced at 65 micrometers intervals. Laser fluence was 7.81 J/cm^2 with a rep rate of 10 Hz. The iolite software package was used to reduce data collected from laser ablation analysis of experiments with Si-29 used as the internal standard isotope. Iolite's global fit module was used to simultaneously fit elements' diffusivities in each experiment while keeping the Matano interface constant. Elements analysed include V, Nb, W, Mo, La, Ce, Pr, Sm, Eu, Gd, Ta, and W. Figures

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Owen, Benjamin C.; Kenttamaa, Hilkka I.

The present disclosure provides a new tandem mass spectrometer and methods of using the same for analyzing charged particles. The differentially pumped dual linear quadrupole ion trap mass spectrometer of the present disclose includes a combination of two linear quadrupole (LQIT) mass spectrometers with differentially pumped vacuum chambers.

Spacecraft Applications of Compact Optical and Mass Spectrometers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Davinic, N. M.; Nagel, D. J.

1995-01-01

Optical spectrometers, and mass spectrometers to a lesser extent, have a long and rich history of use aboard spacecraft. Space mission applications include deep space science spacecraft, earth orbiting satellites, atmospheric probes, and surface landers, rovers, and penetrators. The large size of capable instruments limited their use to large, expensive spacecraft. Because of the novel application of micro-fabrication technologies, compact optical and mass spectrometers are now available. The new compact devices are especially attractive for spacecraft because of their small mass and volume, as well as their low power consumption. Dispersive optical multi-channel analyzers which cover the 0.4-1.1 micrometer wavelength are now commercially available in packages as small as 3 x 6 x 18 mm exclusive of drive and recording electronics. Mass spectrometers as small as 3 x 3 mm, again without electronics, are under development. A variety of compact optical and mass spectrometers are reviewed in this paper. A number of past space applications are described, along with some upcoming opportunities that are likely candidate missions to fly this new class of compact spectrometers.

Photoactive dye enhanced tissue ablation for endoscopic laser prostatectomy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahn, Minwoo; Nguyen, Trung Hau; Nguyen, Van Phuc; Oh, Junghwan; Kang, Hyun Wook

2015-02-01

Laser light has been widely used as a surgical tool to treat benign prostate hyperplasia with high laser power. The purpose of this study was to validate the feasibility of photoactive dye injection to enhance light absorption and eventually to facilitate tissue ablation with low laser power. The experiment was implemented on chicken breast due to minimal optical absorption Amaranth (AR), black dye (BD), hemoglobin powder (HP), and endoscopic marker (EM), were selected and tested in vitro with a customized 532-nm laser system with radiant exposure ranging from 0.9 to 3.9 J/cm2. Light absorbance and ablation threshold were measured with UV-VIS spectrometer and Probit analysis, respectively, and compared to feature the function of the injected dyes. Ablation performance with dye-injection was evaluated in light of radiant exposure, dye concentration, and number of injection. Higher light absorption by injected dyes led to lower ablation threshold as well as more efficient tissue removal in the order of AR, BD, HP, and EM. Regardless of the injected dyes, ablation efficiency principally increased with input parameter. Among the dyes, AR created the highest ablation rate of 44.2+/-0.2 μm/pulse due to higher absorbance and lower ablation threshold. Preliminary tests on canine prostate with a hydraulic injection system demonstrated that 80 W with dye injection yielded comparable ablation efficiency to 120 W with no injection, indicating 33 % reduced laser power with almost equivalent performance. In-depth comprehension on photoactive dye-enhanced tissue ablation can help accomplish efficient and safe laser treatment for BPH with low power application.

Mobile inductively coupled plasma system

DOEpatents

D'Silva, Arthur P.; Jaselskis, Edward J.

1999-03-30

A system for sampling and analyzing a material located at a hazardous site. A laser located remote from the hazardous site is connected to an optical fiber, which directs laser radiation proximate the material at the hazardous site. The laser radiation abates a sample of the material. An inductively coupled plasma is located remotely from the material. An aerosol transport system carries the ablated particles to a plasma, where they are dissociated, atomized and excited to provide characteristic optical reduction of the elemental constituents of the sample. An optical spectrometer is located remotely from the site. A second optical fiber is connected to the optical spectrometer at one end and the plasma source at the other end to carry the optical radiation from the plasma source to the spectrometer.

[Small renal mass].

PubMed

Prokofiev, D; Kreutzer, N; Kress, A; Wissing, F; Pfeifer, H; Stolzenburg, J-U; Dietel, A; Schwalenberg, T; Do, M; Truß, M C

2012-10-01

The frequent application of ultrasound and radiological imaging for non-urological indications in recent years has resulted in an increase in the diagnosis of small renal masses. The treatment options for patients with a small renal mass include active surveillance, surgery (both open and minimally invasive) as well as ablative techniques. As there is a risk for metastatic spread even in small renal masses surgical extirpation remains the treatment of choice in most patients. Ablative procedures, such as cryoablation and radiofrequency ablation are appropriate for old and multi-morbid patients who require active treatment of a small renal mass. Active surveillance is an alternative for high-risk patients. Meticulous patient selection by the urologist and patient preference will determine the choice of treatment option in the future.

Effect of nonparallel placement of in-circle bipolar radiofrequency ablation probes on volume of tissue ablated with heat sink.

PubMed

Pillai, Krishna; Al-Alem, Ihssan; Akhter, Javed; Chua, Terence C; Shehata, Mena; Morris, David L

2015-06-01

Percutaneous bipolar radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive technique for treating liver tumors. It is not always possible to insert the bipolar probes parallel to each other on either side of tumor, since it restricts maneuverability away from vital structures or ablate certain tumor shape. Therefore, we investigated how nonparallel placement of probes affected ablation. Bipolar RFA in parallel and in divergent positions were submerged in tissue model (800 mL egg white) at 37°C and ablated. Temperature probes, T1 and T2 were placed 8.00 mm below the tip of the probes, T3 in between the probe coil elements and T4 and T5 at water inlet and outlet, respectively. Both models with heat sink (+HS) and without (-HS) were investigated. The mean ablated tissue volume, mass, density and height increased linearly with unit angle increase for -HS model. With +HS, a smaller increase in mean volume and mass, a slightly greater increase in mean density but a reduction in height of tissue was seen. The mean ablation time and duration of maximum temperature with +HS was slightly larger, compared with -HS, while -HS ablated at a slightly higher temperature. The heat sink present was minimal for probes in parallel position compared to nonparallel positions. Divergence from parallel insertion of bipolar RFA probes increased the mean volume, mass, and density of tissue ablated. However, the presence of large heat sinks may limit the application of this technique, when tumors border on larger vessels. © The Author(s) 2014.

New Approach for Near-Real-Time Measurement of Elemental Composition of Aerosol Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy

PubMed Central

Diwakar, Prasoon; Kulkarni, Pramod; Birch, M. Eileen

2015-01-01

A new approach has been developed for making near-real-time measurement of elemental composition of aerosols using plasma spectroscopy. The method allows preconcentration of miniscule particle mass (pg to ng) directly from the sampled aerosol stream through electrostatic deposition of charged particles (30–900 nm) onto a flat-tip microneedle electrode. The collected material is subsequently ablated from the electrode and monitored by laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy. Atomic emission spectra were collected using a broadband spectrometer with a wavelength range of 200–980 nm. A single-sensor delay time of 1.3 μs was used in the spectrometer for all elements to allow simultaneous measurement of multiple elements. The system was calibrated for various elements including Cd, Cr, Cu, Mn, Na, and Ti. The absolute mass detection limits for these elements were experimentally determined and found to be in the range of 0.018–5 ng. The electrostatic collection technique has many advantages over other substrate-based methods involving aerosol collection on a filter or its focused deposition using an aerodynamic lens. Because the particle mass is collected over a very small area that is smaller than the spatial extent of the laser-induced plasma, the entire mass is available for analysis. This considerably improves reliability of the calibration and enhances measurement accuracy and precision. Further, the aerosol collection technique involves very low pressure drop, thereby allowing higher sample flow rates with much smaller pumps—a desirable feature for portable instrumentation. Higher flow rates also make it feasible to measure trace element concentrations at part per trillion levels. Detection limits in the range of 18–670 ng m−3 can be achieved for most of the elements studied at a flow rate of 1.5 L min−1 with sampling times of 5 min. PMID:26692632

[Ablative treatments in localized renal cancer: literature review for 2014].

PubMed

Chodez, M; Fiard, G; Arnoux, V; Descotes, J-L; Long, J-A

2015-07-01

To focus on indications and results of ablative treatments (cyoablation, radiofrequency) for small renal masses, a bibliographic research was conducted in MedLine database using terms of "ablative treatment", "cryotherapy", "radiofrequency", "kidney cancer", "renal cell carcinoma". Sixty-four articles were selected. Carcinologic outcomes seem to be better with cryoablation than with radiofrequency. Available results have to be balanced according to surgical approach, teams' experience and duration of follow-up. Tumour's size and central localization are the main factors of failure. The size of 3cm is the most generally validated. Hospital stay and complications seem to be better with ablative therapies than with surgical approach, especially with percutaneous approach. The renal function preservation appears to be better with ablative therapies. It could be an interesting alternative to partial nephrectomy for small masses, in particular for fragile patients or in particular indications (multifocal tumors, in case of solitary kidney or transplanted kidney). The indications in elderly people must be proposed with care after the comorbidities have been evaluated. Indications of ablative treatment for small renal masses improve, but the gold standard treatment remains partial nephrectomy and indications must be individually discussed. Other ablative treatments are under-development, needing further studies. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

A Mass Spectrometer Simulator in Your Computer

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gagnon, Michel

2012-01-01

Introduced to study components of ionized gas, the mass spectrometer has evolved into a highly accurate device now used in many undergraduate and research laboratories. Unfortunately, despite their importance in the formation of future scientists, mass spectrometers remain beyond the financial reach of many high schools and colleges. As a result,…

Quadrupole mass spectrometer driver with higher signal levels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chutjian, Ara (Inventor); Aalami, Dean (Inventor); Darrach, Murray (Inventor); Orient, Otto (Inventor)

2003-01-01

Driving a quadrapole mass spectrometer includes obtaining an air core transformer with a primary and a secondary, matching the secondary to the mass spectrometer, and driving the primary based on first and second voltage levels. Driving of the primary is via an isolating stage that minimizes low level drive signal coupling.

Miniature micromachined quadrupole mass spectrometer array and method of making the same

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chutjian, Ara (Inventor); Brennen, Reid A. (Inventor); Hecht, Michael (Inventor); Wiberg, Dean (Inventor); Orient, Otto (Inventor)

2001-01-01

The present invention provides a quadrupole mass spectrometer and an ion filter for use in the quadrupole mass spectrometer. The ion filter includes a thin patterned layer including a two-dimensional array of poles forming one or more quadrupoles. The patterned layer design permits the use of very short poles and with a very dense spacing of the poles, so that the ion filter may be made very small. Also provided is a method for making the ion filter and the quadrupole mass spectrometer. The method involves forming the patterned layer of the ion filter in such a way that as the poles of the patterned layer are formed, they have the relative positioning and alignment for use in a final quadrupole mass spectrometer device.

Miniature micromachined quadrupole mass spectrometer array and method of making the same

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fuerstenau, Stephen D. (Inventor); Yee, Karl Y. (Inventor); Chutjian, Ara (Inventor); Orient, Otto J. (Inventor); Rice, John T. (Inventor)

2002-01-01

The present invention provides a quadrupole mass spectrometer and an ion filter, or pole array, for use in the quadrupole mass spectrometer. The ion filter includes a thin patterned layer including a two-dimensional array of poles forming one or more quadrupoles. The patterned layer design permits the use of very short poles and with a very dense spacing of the poles, so that the ion filter may be made very small. Also provided is a method for making the ion filter and the quadrupole mass spectrometer. The method involves forming the patterned layer of the ion filter in such a way that as the poles of the patterned layer are formed, they have the relative positioning and alignment for use in a final quadrupole mass spectrometer device.

Miniature micromachined quadrupole mass spectrometer array and method of making the same

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chutjian, Ara (Inventor); Rice, John T. (Inventor); Fuerstenau, Stephen D. (Inventor); Orient, Otto J. (Inventor); Yee, Karl Y. (Inventor)

2000-01-01

The present invention provides a quadrupole mass spectrometer and an ion filter, or pole array, for use in the quadrupole mass spectrometer. The ion filter includes a thin patterned layer including a two-dimensional array of poles forming one or more quadrupoles. The patterned layer design permits the use of very short poles and with a very dense spacing of the poles, so that the ion filter may be made very small. Also provided is a method for making the ion filter and the quadrupole mass spectrometer. The method involves forming the patterned layer of the ion filter in such a way that as the poles of the patterned layer are formed, they have the relative positioning and alignment for use in a final quadrupole mass spectrometer device.

Miniature micromachined quadrupole mass spectrometer array and method of making the same

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yee, Karl Y. (Inventor); Fuerstenau, Stephen D. (Inventor); Orient, Otto J. (Inventor); Rice, John T. (Inventor); Chutjian, Ara (Inventor)

2001-01-01

The present invention provides a quadrupole mass spectrometer and an ion filter, or pole array, for use in the quadrupole mass spectrometer. The ion filter includes a thin patterned layer including a two-dimensional array of poles forming one or more quadrupoles. The patterned layer design permits the use of very short poles and with a very dense spacing of the poles, so that the ion filter may be made very small. Also provided is a method for making the ion filter and the quadrupole mass spectrometer. The method involves forming the patterned layer of the ion filter in such a way that as the poles of the patterned layer are formed, they have the relative positioning and alignment for use in a final quadrupole mass spectrometer device.

Miniature micromachined quadrupole mass spectrometer array and method of making the same

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hecht, Michael (Inventor); Wiberg, Dean (Inventor); Orient, Otto (Inventor); Brennen, Reid A. (Inventor); Chutjian, Ara (Inventor)

2001-01-01

The present invention provides a quadrupole mass spectrometer and an ion filter for use in the quadrupole mass spectrometer. The ion filter includes a thin patterned layer including a two-dimensional array of poles forming one or more quadrupoles. The patterned layer design permits the use of very short poles and with a very dense spacing of the poles, so that the ion filter may be made very small. Also provided is a method for making the ion filter and the quadrupole mass spectrometer. The method involves forming the patterned layer of the ion filter in such a way that as the poles of the patterned layer are formed, they have the relative positioning and aligrnent for use in a final quadrupole mass spectrometer device.

Miniature micromachined quadrupole mass spectrometer array and method of making the same

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Orient, Otto (Inventor); Wiberg, Dean (Inventor); Brennen, Reid A. (Inventor); Hecht, Michael (Inventor); Chutjian, Ara (Inventor)

2000-01-01

The present invention provides a quadrupole mass spectrometer and an ion filter for use in the quadrupole mass spectrometer. The ion filter includes a thin patterned layer including a two-dimensional array of poles forming one or more quadrupoles. The patterned layer design permits the use of very short poles and with a very dense spacing of the poles, so that the ion filter may be made very small. Also provided is a method for making the ion filter and the quadrupole mass spectrometer. The method involves forming the patterned layer of the ion filter in such a way that as the poles of the patterned layer are formed, they have the relative positioning and alignment for use in a final quadrupole mass spectrometer device.

Application of dynamic mass spectrometers for investigations in the field of thermonuclear synthesis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aruev, N. N.

2017-04-01

This review discusses the design, analytical characteristics, and some applications of two types of dynamic mass spectrometers that have been developed at the Ioffe Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences: the magnetic resonance mass spectrometer (MRMS) and time-of-flight mass spectrometer (TOFMS), the latter of which the inventors named the mass reflectron. With the aid of an MRMS, it was possible to measure the half-life of tritium, which is a fusion fuel candidate, and to start investigating how deuterium plasma interacts with the structural materials of the spherical tokamak Globus-M. The research done shows that mass reflectrons can be used successfully in the analysis of tritium-containing fusion fuel gas mixtures.

Evolving practice patterns for the management of small renal masses in the USA.

PubMed

Yang, Glen; Villalta, Jacqueline D; Meng, Maxwell V; Whitson, Jared M

2012-10-01

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add? Treatment options for small renal masses include radical nephrectomy (RN), partial nephrectomy (PN), ablation, and surveillance. PN provides equivalent oncological as RN for small tumours, but long-term outcomes for ablation and surveillance are poorly defined. Due to changing techniques and technology, treatment patterns for small renal masses are rapidly developing. Prior studies had analysed utilisation trends for PN and RN to 2006, revealing a relative rise in the rate of PN. However, overall treatment trends including surveillance and ablation had not been studied using a population-based cohort. It has become increasingly clear that RN is associated with greater renal and cardiovascular deterioration than nephron-sparing treatments. Thus, it is important to understand current population-based practice patterns for the treatment of small renal masses to assess whether practitioners are adhering to ever-changing principles in this field. The present study provides up-to-date treatment trends in the USA using a large population-based cohort. To describe the changing practice patterns in the management of small renal masses, including the use of surveillance and ablative techniques. All patients in the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) registry treated for renal masses of ≤7 cm in diameter, from 1998 to 2008, were included for analysis. Annual trends in the use of surveillance, ablation, partial nephrectomy (PN), and radical nephrectomy (RN) were calculated. Multinomial logistic regression was used to determine the association of demographic and clinical characteristics with treatment method. In all, 48 148 patients from 17 registry sites with a mean age of 63.4 years were included for analysis. Between 1998 and 2008, for masses of <2 cm and 2.1-4 cm, there was a dramatic increase in the proportion of patients undergoing PN (31% vs 50%, 16% vs 33%, respectively) and ablation (1% vs 11%, 2% vs 9%, respectively). In multivariable analysis, later year of diagnosis, male gender, being married, clinically localised disease, and smaller tumours were associated with increased use of PN vs RN. Later year of diagnosis, male gender, being unmarried, smaller tumour, and the presence of bilateral masses were associated with increased use of ablation and surveillance vs RN. PN is now used in half of all patients with the smallest renal masses, and its use continues to increase over time. Ablation and surveillance are less common overall, but there is increased usage over time in select populations. © 2012 THE AUTHORS. BJU INTERNATIONAL © 2012 BJU INTERNATIONAL.

Thermal response of a 4D carbon/carbon composite with volume ablation: a numerical simulation study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Bai; Li, Xudong

2018-02-01

As carbon/carbon composites usually work at high temperature environments, material ablation inevitably occurs, which further affects the system stability and safety. In this paper, the thermal response of a thermoprotective four-directional carbon/carbon (4D C/C) composite is studied herein using a numerical model focusing on volume ablation. The model is based on energy- and mass-conservation principles as well as on the thermal decomposition equation of solid materials. The thermophysical properties of the C/C composite during the ablation process are calculated, and the thermal response during ablation, including temperature distribution, density, decomposition rate, char layer thickness, and mass loss, are quantitatively predicted. The present numerical study provides a fundamental understanding of the ablative mechanisms of a 4D C/C composite, serving as a reference and basis for further designs and optimizations of thermoprotective materials.

Mobile inductively coupled plasma system

DOEpatents

D`Silva, A.P.; Jaselskis, E.J.

1999-03-30

A system is described for sampling and analyzing a material located at a hazardous site. A laser located remotely from the hazardous site is connected to an optical fiber, which directs laser radiation proximate the material at the hazardous site. The laser radiation abates a sample of the material. An inductively coupled plasma is located remotely from the material. An aerosol transport system carries the ablated particles to a plasma, where they are dissociated, atomized and excited to provide characteristic optical reduction of the elemental constituents of the sample. An optical spectrometer is located remotely from the site. A second optical fiber is connected to the optical spectrometer at one end and the plasma source at the other end to carry the optical radiation from the plasma source to the spectrometer. 10 figs.

Comparison of Er:YAG and Er:YSGG laser ablation of dental hard tissues

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stock, Karl; Hibst, Raimund; Keller, Ulrich

1997-12-01

To compare ablation quality of Er:YAG and Er:YSGG laser the surface quality, crater shape, mass loss, and temperature development were determined using the same fiber transmission system and handpiece. Similar crater depths for both lasers but greater diameters for the Er:YAG laser were measured. Also mass loss per pulse of the Er:YAG laser exceeds that of the Er:YSGG laser. Temperature development while ablation of dentin is more pronounced for the Er:YSGG laser. The observed minor ablation quality of the Er:YSGG laser can be explained by the lower absorption coefficient of dental hard substances compared to the Er:YAG laser.

A new time of flight mass spectrometer for absolute dissociative electron attachment cross-section measurements in gas phase

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chakraborty, Dipayan; Nag, Pamir; Nandi, Dhananjay

2018-02-01

A new time of flight mass spectrometer (TOFMS) has been developed to study the absolute dissociative electron attachment (DEA) cross section using a relative flow technique of a wide variety of molecules in gas phase, ranging from simple diatomic to complex biomolecules. Unlike the Wiley-McLaren type TOFMS, here the total ion collection condition has been achieved without compromising the mass resolution by introducing a field free drift region after the lensing arrangement. The field free interaction region is provided for low energy electron molecule collision studies. The spectrometer can be used to study a wide range of masses (H- ion to few hundreds atomic mass unit). The mass resolution capability of the spectrometer has been checked experimentally by measuring the mass spectra of fragment anions arising from DEA to methanol. Overall performance of the spectrometer has been tested by measuring the absolute DEA cross section of the ground state SO2 molecule, and the results are satisfactory.

Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS)

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-03-31

mass spectrometry and laser induced breakdown spectroscopy, Spe T Trejos, A Flores and JR. Almirall, Micro-spectrochemical analysis of document paper...and gel inks by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and laser induced breakdown spectroscopy, Spectrochimica Acta Part B...abstracts): 1. *Schenk, E.R. “Elemental analysis of unprocessed cotton by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) and laser

a Chirped Pulse Fourier Transform Microwave Cp-Ftmw Spectrometer with Laser Ablation Source to Search for Actinide-Containing Molecules and Noble Metal Clusters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marshall, Frank E.; Gillcrist, David Joseph; Persinger, Thomas D.; Moon, Nicole; Grubbs, G. S., II

2016-06-01

Microwave spectroscopic techniques have traditionally been part of the foundation of molecular structure and this conference. Instrumental developments by Brooks Pate and sourcing developments by Steve Cooke on these instruments have allowed for the dawning of a new era in modern microwave spectroscopic techniques. With these advances and the growth of powerful computational approaches, microwave spectroscopists can now search for molecules and/or cluster systems of actinide and noble metal-containing species with increasing certainty in molecular assignment even with the difficulties presented with spin-orbit coupling and relativistic effects. Spectrometer and ablation design will be presented along with any preliminary results on actinide-containing molecules or noble metal clusters or interactions. G. G. Brown, B. C. Dian, K. O. Douglass, S. M. Geyer, S. T. Shipman, B. H. Pate, Rev. Sci. Instrum. 79 (2008) 053103-1 - 053103-13 G. S. Grubbs II, C. T. Dewberry, K. C. Etchison, K. E. Kerr, S. A. Cooke, Rev. Sci. Instrum. 78 (2007) 096106-1 - 096106-3

Cluster formation in laser-induced ablation and evaporation of solids observed by laser ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry and scanning tunneling microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tench, R. J.; Balooch, M.; Bernardez, L.; Allen, Mike J.; Siekhaus, W. J.; Olander, D. R.; Wang, W.

1990-04-01

Laser ionization time-of-flight mass analysis (LIMA) used pulses (5ns) of a frequency-quadrupled Nd-YAG laser (266 nm) focused onto spots of 4 to 100 microns diameter to ablate material, and a reflectron time of flight tube to mass-analyze the plume. The observed mass spectra for Si, Pt, SiC, and UO 2 varied in the distribution of ablation products among atoms, molecules and clusters, depending on laser power density and target material. Cleaved surfaces of highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) positioned at room temperature either 10 cm away from materials ablated at 10(exp -5) Torr by 1 to 3 excimer laser (308 nm) pulses of 20 ns duration or 1 m away from materials vaporized at 10(exp -8) Torr by 10 Nd-Glass laser pulses of 1 ms duration were analyzed by Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM) in air with angstrom resolution. Clusters up to 30 A in diameter were observed.

Mass spectrometer calibration standard

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ross, D. S.

1978-01-01

Inert perfluorinated alkane and alkyl ethers mixture is used to calibrate mass spectrometer. Noncontaminating, commercially-available liquid provides series of reproducible reference peaks over broad mass spectrum that ranges over mass numbers from 1 to 200.

Measurement of longitudinal sulfur isotopic variations by laser ablation MC-ICP-MS in single human hair strands.

PubMed

Santamaria-Fernandez, Rebeca; Giner Martínez-Sierra, Justo; Marchante-Gayón, J M; García-Alonso, J Ignacio; Hearn, Ruth

2009-05-01

A new method for the measurement of longitudinal variations of sulfur isotope amount ratios in single hair strands using a laser ablation system coupled to a multicollector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (LA-MC-ICP-MS) is reported here for the first time. Ablation parameters have been optimized for the measurement of sulfur isotope ratios in scalp human hair strands of 80-120-microm thickness and different washing procedures have been evaluated. The repeatability of the method has been tested and the ability to measure sulfur isotopic variations in 1,000-microm-long hair segments has been evaluated. A horse hair sample previously characterized for carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios in an interlaboratory study has been characterized by LA-MC-ICP-MS to be used as an in-house standard for the bracketing of human hair strands. (34)S/(32)S isotope amount ratios have been measured and corrected for instrumental mass bias adopting the external standardization approach using National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) RM8553 and full uncertainty budgets have been calculated using the Kragten approach. Results are reported as both (34)S/(32)S isotope amount ratios and deltaS(V-CDT) values (sulfur isotopic differences relative to a reference sample expressed in the Vienna Canyon Diablo Troilite (V-CDT) scale) calculated using NIST RM8553, NIST RM8554, and NIST RM8556 to anchor results to the V-CDT scale. The main advantage of the new method versus conventional gas source isotope ratio mass spectrometry measurements is that longitudinal variations in sulfur isotope amount ratios can be resolved. Proof of concept is shown with human scalp hair strands from three individuals, two UK residents and one traveler (long periods of time abroad). The method enables monitoring of longitudinal isotope ratio variations in single hair strands. Absolute ratios are reported and delta(34)S(V-CDT) values are plotted for comparison. Slight variations of <1.2 per thousand were detected in the hair strands from UK residents whereas the traveler presented a variation of >5 per thousand. Thus, the measurement of sulfur isotopic variations in hair samples has potential to be an indicator of geographical origin and recent movements and could be used in combination with isotope ratio measurements in water/foodstuffs from different geographical locations to provide important information in nutritional and geographical studies.

A compact time-of-flight mass spectrometer for ion source characterization

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chen, L., E-mail: l.chen03@gmail.com; Wan, X.; Jin, D. Z.

2015-03-15

A compact time-of-flight mass spectrometer with overall dimension of about 413 × 250 × 414 mm based on orthogonal injection and angle reflection has been developed for ion source characterization. Configuration and principle of the time-of-flight mass spectrometer are introduced in this paper. The mass resolution is optimized to be about 1690 (FWHM), and the ion energy detection range is tested to be between about 3 and 163 eV with the help of electron impact ion source. High mass resolution and compact configuration make this spectrometer useful to provide a valuable diagnostic for ion spectra fundamental research and study themore » mass to charge composition of plasma with wide range of parameters.« less

Inficon Transpector MPH Mass Spectrometer Random Vibration Test Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Santiago-Bond, Jo; Captain, Janine

2015-01-01

The purpose of this test report is to summarize results from the vibration testing of the INFICON Transpector MPH100M model Mass Spectrometer. It also identifies requirements satisfied, and procedures used in the test. As a payload of Resource Prospector, it is necessary to determine the survivability of the mass spectrometer to proto-qualification level random vibration. Changes in sensitivity of the mass spectrometer can be interpreted as a change in alignment of the instrument. The results of this test will be used to determine any necessary design changes as the team moves forward with flight design.

Bipolar radiofrequency ablation of spinal tumors: predictability, safety and outcome.

PubMed

Gazis, Angelos N; Beuing, Oliver; Franke, Jörg; Jöllenbeck, Boris; Skalej, Martin

2014-04-01

Bone metastases are often the cause of tumor-associated pain and reduction of quality of life. For patients that cannot be treated by surgery, a local minimally invasive therapy such as radiofrequency ablation can be a useful option. In cases in which tumorous masses are adjacent to vulnerable structures, the monopolar radiofrequency can cause severe neuronal damage because of the unpredictability of current flow. The aim of this study is to show that the bipolar radiofrequency ablation provides an opportunity to safely treat such spinal lesions because of precise predictability of the emerging ablation zone. Prospective cohort study of 36 patients undergoing treatment at a single institution. Thirty-six patients in advanced tumor stage with primary or secondary tumor involvement of spine undergoing radiofrequency ablation. Prediction of emerging ablation zone. Clinical outcome of treated patients. X-ray-controlled treatment of 39 lesions by bipolar radiofrequency ablation. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed pre- and postinterventionally. Patients were observed clinically during their postinterventional stay. The extent of the ablation zones was predictable to the millimeter because it did not cross the peri-interventional planned dorsal and ventral boundaries in any case. No complications were observed. Ablation of tumorous masses adjacent to vulnerable structures is feasible and predictable by using the bipolar radiofrequency ablation. Damage of neuronal structures can be avoided through precise prediction of the ablation area. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Vacuum compatible sample positioning device for matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry imaging

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Aizikov, Konstantin; Lin, Tzu-Yung; Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts 02215

The high mass accuracy and resolving power of Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometers (FT-ICR MS) make them ideal mass detectors for mass spectrometry imaging (MSI), promising to provide unmatched molecular resolution capabilities. The intrinsic low tolerance of FT-ICR MS to RF interference, however, along with typically vertical positioning of the sample, and MSI acquisition speed requirements present numerous engineering challenges in creating robotics capable of achieving the spatial resolution to match. This work discusses a two-dimensional positioning stage designed to address these issues. The stage is capable of operating in {approx}1 x 10{sup -8} mbar vacuum. The rangemore » of motion is set to 100 mm x 100 mm to accommodate large samples, while the positioning accuracy is demonstrated to be less than 0.4 micron in both directions under vertical load over the entire range. This device was integrated into three different matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) FT-ICR instruments and showed no detectable RF noise. The ''oversampling'' MALDI-MSI experiments, under which the sample is completely ablated at each position, followed by the target movement of the distance smaller than the laser beam, conducted on the custom-built 7T FT-ICR MS demonstrate the stability and positional accuracy of the stage robotics which delivers high spatial resolution mass spectral images at a fraction of the laser spot diameter.« less

A Dual Source Ion Trap Mass Spectrometer for the Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer of ExoMars 2018

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brickerhoff, William B.; vanAmerom, F. H. W.; Danell, R. M.; Arevalo, R.; Atanassova, M.; Hovmand, L.; Mahaffy, P. R.; Cotter, R. J.

2011-01-01

We present details on the objectives, requirements, design and operational approach of the core mass spectrometer of the Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer (MOMA) investigation on the 2018 ExoMars mission. The MOMA mass spectrometer enables the investigation to fulfill its objective of analyzing the chemical composition of organic compounds in solid samples obtained from the near surface of Mars. Two methods of ionization are realized, associated with different modes of MOMA operation, in a single compact ion trap mass spectrometer. The stringent mass and power constraints of the mission have led to features such as low voltage and low frequency RF operation [1] and pulse counting detection.

Compact hydrogen/helium isotope mass spectrometer

DOEpatents

Funsten, Herbert O.; McComas, David J.; Scime, Earl E.

1996-01-01

The compact hydrogen and helium isotope mass spectrometer of the present invention combines low mass-resolution ion mass spectrometry and beam-foil interaction technology to unambiguously detect and quantify deuterium (D), tritium (T), hydrogen molecule (H.sub.2, HD, D.sub.2, HT, DT, and T.sub.2), .sup.3 He, and .sup.4 He concentrations and concentration variations. The spectrometer provides real-time, high sensitivity, and high accuracy measurements. Currently, no fieldable D or molecular speciation detectors exist. Furthermore, the present spectrometer has a significant advantage over traditional T detectors: no confusion of the measurements by other beta-emitters, and complete separation of atomic and molecular species of equivalent atomic mass (e.g., HD and .sup.3 He).

High-accuracy mass spectrometry for fundamental studies.

PubMed

Kluge, H-Jürgen

2010-01-01

Mass spectrometry for fundamental studies in metrology and atomic, nuclear and particle physics requires extreme sensitivity and efficiency as well as ultimate resolving power and accuracy. An overview will be given on the global status of high-accuracy mass spectrometry for fundamental physics and metrology. Three quite different examples of modern mass spectrometric experiments in physics are presented: (i) the retardation spectrometer KATRIN at the Forschungszentrum Karlsruhe, employing electrostatic filtering in combination with magnetic-adiabatic collimation-the biggest mass spectrometer for determining the smallest mass, i.e. the mass of the electron anti-neutrino, (ii) the Experimental Cooler-Storage Ring at GSI-a mass spectrometer of medium size, relative to other accelerators, for determining medium-heavy masses and (iii) the Penning trap facility, SHIPTRAP, at GSI-the smallest mass spectrometer for determining the heaviest masses, those of super-heavy elements. Finally, a short view into the future will address the GSI project HITRAP at GSI for fundamental studies with highly-charged ions.

Modeling of the plasma extraction efficiency of an inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometer interface using the direct simulation Monte Carlo method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kivel, Niko; Potthast, Heiko-Dirk; Günther-Leopold, Ines; Vanhaecke, Frank; Günther, Detlef

The interface between the atmospheric pressure plasma ion source and the high vacuum mass spectrometer is a crucial part of an inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometer. It influences the efficiency of the mass transfer into the mass spectrometer, it also contributes to the formation of interfering ions and to mass discrimination. This region was simulated using the Direct Simulation Monte Carlo method with respect to the formation of shock waves, mass transport and mass discrimination. The modeling results for shock waves and mass transport are in overall agreement with the literature. Insights into the effects and geometrical features causing mass discrimination could be gained. The overall observed collision based mass discrimination is lower than expected from measurements on real instruments, supporting the assumptions that inter-particle collisions play a minor role in this context published earlier. A full representation of the study, for two selected geometries, is given in form of a movie as supplementary data.

Pulse laser ablation of Au, Ag, and Cu metal targets in liquid for nanoparticle production

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Herbani, Y.; Irmaniar; Nasution, R. S.; Mujtahid, F.; Masse, S.

2018-03-01

We have fabricated metal and oxide nanoparticles using pulse laser ablation of Au, Ag, and Cu metal targets immersed in water. While laser ablation of Au and Ag targets in water produced metal nanoparticles which were stable for a month even without any dispersant, we found CuO nanoparticles for Cu target due to rapid oxidation of Cu in water resulted in its poor stability. Au, Ag, and CuO nanoparticles production were barely identified by naked eyes for their distinctive colour of red, yellow, and dark green colloidal suspensions, respectively. It was also verified using UV-Vis spectrometer that Au, Ag, and CuO colloidal nanoparticles have their respective surface plasmon resonance at 520, 400, and 620 nm. TEM observation showed that particle sizes for all the fabricated nanoparticles were in the range of 20 – 40 nm with crystalline structures.

Iterative and function-continuation Fourier deconvolution methods for enhancing mass spectrometer resolution

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ioup, J. W.; Ioup, G. E.; Rayborn, G. H., Jr.; Wood, G. M., Jr.; Upchurch, B. T.

1984-01-01

Mass spectrometer data in the form of ion current versus mass-to-charge ratio often include overlapping mass peaks, especially in low- and medium-resolution instruments. Numerical deconvolution of such data effectively enhances the resolution by decreasing the overlap of mass peaks. In this paper two approaches to deconvolution are presented: a function-domain iterative technique and a Fourier transform method which uses transform-domain function-continuation. Both techniques include data smoothing to reduce the sensitivity of the deconvolution to noise. The efficacy of these methods is demonstrated through application to representative mass spectrometer data and the deconvolved results are discussed and compared to data obtained from a spectrometer with sufficient resolution to achieve separation of the mass peaks studied. A case for which the deconvolution is seriously affected by Gibbs oscillations is analyzed.

Application of the mass-spectrometer MASHA for mass-spectrometry and laser-spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodin, A. M.; Belozerov, A. V.; Dmitriev, S. N.; Oganessian, Yu. Ts.; Sagaidak, R. N.; Salamatin, V. S.; Stepantsov, S. V.; Vanin, D. V.

2010-02-01

We report the present status of the mass-spectrometer MASHA (Mass-Analyzer of Supper Heavy Atoms) designed for determination of the masses of superheavy elements. The mass-spectrometer is connected to the U-400M cyclotron of the Flerov Laboratory for Nuclear Reactions (FLNR) JINR, Dubna. The first experiments on mass-measurements for 112 and 114 elements will be performed in the upcoming 2010. For this purpose a hot catcher, based on a graphite stopper, is constructed. The α-decay of the superheavy nuclides or spontaneous fission products will be detected with a silicon 192 strips detector. The experimental program of future investigations using the technique of a gas catcher is discussed. It should be regarded as an alternative of the classical ISOL technique. The possibilities are considered for using this mass-spectrometer for laser spectroscopy of nuclei far off-stability.

Thermal Ablation Modeling for Silicate Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chen, Yih-Kanq

2016-01-01

A thermal ablation model for silicates is proposed. The model includes the mass losses through the balance between evaporation and condensation, and through the moving molten layer driven by surface shear force and pressure gradient. This model can be applied in ablation simulations of the meteoroid or glassy Thermal Protection Systems for spacecraft. Time-dependent axi-symmetric computations are performed by coupling the fluid dynamics code, Data-Parallel Line Relaxation program, with the material response code, Two-dimensional Implicit Thermal Ablation simulation program, to predict the mass lost rates and shape change. For model validation, the surface recession of fused amorphous quartz rod is computed, and the recession predictions reasonably agree with available data. The present parametric studies for two groups of meteoroid earth entry conditions indicate that the mass loss through moving molten layer is negligibly small for heat-flux conditions at around 1 MW/cm(exp. 2).

Development of a dedicated isotope mass spectrometer for the noninvasive diagnostics of humans infected with Helicobacter Pylori

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blashenkov, N. M.; Sheshenya, E. S.; Solov'ev, S. M.; Gall', L. N.; Sachenko, V. M.; Zarutskii, I. V.; Gall', N. R.

2013-06-01

A dedicated isotope mass spectrometer for the noninvasive diagnostics of humans infected with Helicobacter Pylori using the isotope respiratory test is developed. A low-aberration mass analyzer is calculated, an input system that makes it possible to eliminate the memory effects is developed, and a small-size ion detector is constructed. The mass spectrometer is created, and the tests are performed. The measurement accuracy of the 13C/12C and 16O/18O isotope ratios are 1.7 and 2.2‰, respectively. Preliminary medical tests show that the spectrometer can be employed for the desired diagnostics.

Gas sampling system for a mass spectrometer

DOEpatents

Taylor, Charles E; Ladner, Edward P

2003-12-30

The present invention relates generally to a gas sampling system, and specifically to a gas sampling system for transporting a hazardous process gas to a remotely located mass spectrometer. The gas sampling system includes a capillary tube having a predetermined capillary length and capillary diameter in communication with the supply of process gas and the mass spectrometer, a flexible tube surrounding and coaxial with the capillary tube intermediate the supply of process gas and the mass spectrometer, a heat transfer tube surrounding and coaxial with the capillary tube, and a heating device in communication the heat transfer tube for substantially preventing condensation of the process gas within the capillary tube.

The role of mass removal mechanisms in the onset of ns-laser induced plasma formation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Autrique, D.; Clair, G.; L'Hermite, D.; Alexiades, V.; Bogaerts, A.; Rethfeld, B.

2013-07-01

The present study focuses on the role of mass removal mechanisms in ns-laser ablation. A copper sample is placed in argon, initially set at standard pressure and temperature. Calculations are performed for a 6 ns laser pulse with a wavelength of 532 nm and laser fluences up to 10 J/cm2. The transient behavior in and above the copper target is described by a hydrodynamic model. Transmission profiles and ablation depths are compared with experimental results and similar trends are found. Our calculations reveal an interesting self-inhibiting mechanism: volumetric mass removal in the supercritical region triggers plasma shielding and therefore stops proceeding. This self-limiting process indicates that volumetric mass removal does not necessarily result in large ablation depths.

Direct uranium isotope ratio analysis of single micrometer-sized glass particles

PubMed Central

Kappel, Stefanie; Boulyga, Sergei F.; Prohaska, Thomas

2012-01-01

We present the application of nanosecond laser ablation (LA) coupled to a ‘Nu Plasma HR’ multi collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (MC-ICP-MS) for the direct analysis of U isotope ratios in single, 10–20 μm-sized, U-doped glass particles. Method development included studies with respect to (1) external correction of the measured U isotope ratios in glass particles, (2) the applied laser ablation carrier gas (i.e. Ar versus He) and (3) the accurate determination of lower abundant 236U/238U isotope ratios (i.e. 10−5). In addition, a data processing procedure was developed for evaluation of transient signals, which is of potential use for routine application of the developed method. We demonstrate that the developed method is reliable and well suited for determining U isotope ratios of individual particles. Analyses of twenty-eight S1 glass particles, measured under optimized conditions, yielded average biases of less than 0.6% from the certified values for 234U/238U and 235U/238U ratios. Experimental results obtained for 236U/238U isotope ratios deviated by less than −2.5% from the certified values. Expanded relative total combined standard uncertainties Uc (k = 2) of 2.6%, 1.4% and 5.8% were calculated for 234U/238U, 235U/238U and 236U/238U, respectively. PMID:22595724

Direct uranium isotope ratio analysis of single micrometer-sized glass particles.

PubMed

Kappel, Stefanie; Boulyga, Sergei F; Prohaska, Thomas

2012-11-01

We present the application of nanosecond laser ablation (LA) coupled to a 'Nu Plasma HR' multi collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (MC-ICP-MS) for the direct analysis of U isotope ratios in single, 10-20 μm-sized, U-doped glass particles. Method development included studies with respect to (1) external correction of the measured U isotope ratios in glass particles, (2) the applied laser ablation carrier gas (i.e. Ar versus He) and (3) the accurate determination of lower abundant (236)U/(238)U isotope ratios (i.e. 10(-5)). In addition, a data processing procedure was developed for evaluation of transient signals, which is of potential use for routine application of the developed method. We demonstrate that the developed method is reliable and well suited for determining U isotope ratios of individual particles. Analyses of twenty-eight S1 glass particles, measured under optimized conditions, yielded average biases of less than 0.6% from the certified values for (234)U/(238)U and (235)U/(238)U ratios. Experimental results obtained for (236)U/(238)U isotope ratios deviated by less than -2.5% from the certified values. Expanded relative total combined standard uncertainties U(c) (k = 2) of 2.6%, 1.4% and 5.8% were calculated for (234)U/(238)U, (235)U/(238)U and (236)U/(238)U, respectively. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Improved Ablation Resistance of Silicone Rubber Composites by Introducing Montmorillonite and Silicon Carbide Whisker

PubMed Central

Zhang, Guangwu; Wang, Fuzhong; Huang, Zhixiong; Dai, Jing; Shi, Minxian

2016-01-01

Montmorillonite (MMT) was added to silicone rubber (SR) to improve the ablation resistance of the silicone. Following this, different quantities of silicon carbide whiskers (SiCw) were incorporated into the MMT/SR to yield a hybrid, ablative composite. The tensile strength and elongation at break of the composite increased after the addition of MMT. The ablation test results showed that MMT helped to form a covering layer by bonding with the silica and other components on the ablated surface. The linear and mass ablation rates exhibited decreases of 22.5% and 18.2%, respectively, in comparison to a control sample. After further incorporation of SiCw as the second filler, the resulting composites exhibited significantly higher tensile strength and ablation resistance, but not particularly lower elongation at break in comparison to the control sample. The SiCw/MMT fillers were beneficial in forming a dense and compact covering layer that delayed the heat and oxygen diffusion into the inner layers, which improved the ablation properties effectively. The remaining whiskers acted as a micro skeleton to maintain the composite’s char strength. Compared to the control sample, the linear and mass ablation rates of the composite after incorporating 6 phr SiCw and 10 phr MMT decreased by 59.2% and 43.6%, respectively. These experimental results showed that the fabricated composites exhibited outstanding mechanical properties and excellent ablation resistance. PMID:28773846

Improved Ablation Resistance of Silicone Rubber Composites by Introducing Montmorillonite and Silicon Carbide Whisker.

PubMed

Zhang, Guangwu; Wang, Fuzhong; Huang, Zhixiong; Dai, Jing; Shi, Minxian

2016-08-24

Montmorillonite (MMT) was added to silicone rubber (SR) to improve the ablation resistance of the silicone. Following this, different quantities of silicon carbide whiskers (SiCw) were incorporated into the MMT/SR to yield a hybrid, ablative composite. The tensile strength and elongation at break of the composite increased after the addition of MMT. The ablation test results showed that MMT helped to form a covering layer by bonding with the silica and other components on the ablated surface. The linear and mass ablation rates exhibited decreases of 22.5% and 18.2%, respectively, in comparison to a control sample. After further incorporation of SiCw as the second filler, the resulting composites exhibited significantly higher tensile strength and ablation resistance, but not particularly lower elongation at break in comparison to the control sample. The SiCw/MMT fillers were beneficial in forming a dense and compact covering layer that delayed the heat and oxygen diffusion into the inner layers, which improved the ablation properties effectively. The remaining whiskers acted as a micro skeleton to maintain the composite's char strength. Compared to the control sample, the linear and mass ablation rates of the composite after incorporating 6 phr SiCw and 10 phr MMT decreased by 59.2% and 43.6%, respectively. These experimental results showed that the fabricated composites exhibited outstanding mechanical properties and excellent ablation resistance.

A Shuttle Upper Atmosphere Mass Spectrometer /SUMS/ experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Blanchard, R. C.; Duckett, R. J.; Hinson, E. W.

1982-01-01

A magnetic mass spectrometer is currently being adapted to the Space Shuttle Orbiter to provide repeated high altitude atmosphere data to support in situ rarefied flow aerodynamics research, i.e., in the high velocity, low density flight regime. The experiment, called Shuttle Upper Atmosphere Mass Spectrometer (SUMS), is the first attempt to design mass spectrometer equipment for flight vehicle aerodynamic data extraction. The SUMS experiment will provide total freestream atmospheric quantitites, principally total mass density, above altitudes at which conventional pressure measurements are valid. Experiment concepts, the expected flight profile, tradeoffs in the design of the total system and flight data reduction plans are discussed. Development plans are based upon a SUMS first flight after the Orbiter initial development flights.

A neutron activation spectrometer and neutronic experimental platform for the National Ignition Facility (invited)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yeamans, C. B.; Gharibyan, N.

2016-11-01

At the National Ignition Facility, the diagnostic instrument manipulator-based neutron activation spectrometer is used as a diagnostic of implosion performance for inertial confinement fusion experiments. Additionally, it serves as a platform for independent neutronic experiments and may be connected to fast recording systems for neutron effect tests on active electronics. As an implosion diagnostic, the neutron activation spectrometers are used to quantify fluence of primary DT neutrons, downscattered neutrons, and neutrons above the primary DT neutron energy created by reactions of upscattered D and T in flight. At a primary neutron yield of 1015 and a downscattered fraction of neutrons in the 10-12 MeV energy range of 0.04, the downscattered neutron fraction can be measured to a relative uncertainty of 8%. Significant asymmetries in downscattered neutrons have been observed. Spectrometers have been designed and fielded to measure the tritium-tritium and deuterium-tritium neutron outputs simultaneously in experiments using DT/TT fusion ratio as a direct measure of mix of ablator into the gas.

A neutron activation spectrometer and neutronic experimental platform for the National Ignition Facility (invited).

PubMed

Yeamans, C B; Gharibyan, N

2016-11-01

At the National Ignition Facility, the diagnostic instrument manipulator-based neutron activation spectrometer is used as a diagnostic of implosion performance for inertial confinement fusion experiments. Additionally, it serves as a platform for independent neutronic experiments and may be connected to fast recording systems for neutron effect tests on active electronics. As an implosion diagnostic, the neutron activation spectrometers are used to quantify fluence of primary DT neutrons, downscattered neutrons, and neutrons above the primary DT neutron energy created by reactions of upscattered D and T in flight. At a primary neutron yield of 10 15 and a downscattered fraction of neutrons in the 10-12 MeV energy range of 0.04, the downscattered neutron fraction can be measured to a relative uncertainty of 8%. Significant asymmetries in downscattered neutrons have been observed. Spectrometers have been designed and fielded to measure the tritium-tritium and deuterium-tritium neutron outputs simultaneously in experiments using DT/TT fusion ratio as a direct measure of mix of ablator into the gas.

Combining Laser Ablation/Liquid Phase Collection Surface Sampling and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ovchinnikova, Olga S; Kertesz, Vilmos; Van Berkel, Gary J

This paper describes the coupling of ambient pressure transmission geometry laser ablation with a liquid phase sample collection method for surface sampling and ionization with subsequent mass spectral analysis. A commercially available autosampler was adapted to produce a liquid droplet at the end of the syringe injection needle while in close proximity to the surface to collect the sample plume produced by laser ablation. The sample collection was followed by either flow injection or a high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) separation of the extracted components and detection with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS). To illustrate the analytical utility of thismore » coupling, thin films of a commercial ink sample containing rhodamine 6G and of mixed isobaric rhodamine B and 6G dyes on glass microscope slides were analyzed. The flow injection and HPLC/ESI-MS analysis revealed successful laser ablation, capture and, with HPLC, the separation of the two compounds. The ablated circular area was about 70 m in diameter for these experiments. The spatial sampling resolution afforded by the laser ablation, as well as the ability to use sample processing methods like HPLC between the sample collection and ionization steps, makes this combined surface sampling/ionization technique a highly versatile analytical tool.« less

Laser Ablation-Aerosol Mass Spectrometry-Chemical Ionization Mass Spectrometry for Ambient Surface Imaging

DOE PAGES

Berry, Jennifer L.; Day, Douglas A.; Elseberg, Tim; ...

2018-02-20

Mass spectrometry imaging is becoming an increasingly common analytical technique due to its ability to provide spatially resolved chemical information. In this paper, we report a novel imaging approach combining laser ablation with two mass spectrometric techniques, aerosol mass spectrometry and chemical ionization mass spectrometry, separately and in parallel. Both mass spectrometric methods provide the fast response, rapid data acquisition, low detection limits, and high-resolution peak separation desirable for imaging complex samples. Additionally, the two techniques provide complementary information with aerosol mass spectrometry providing near universal detection of all aerosol molecules and chemical ionization mass spectrometry with a heated inletmore » providing molecular-level detail of both gases and aerosols. The two techniques operate with atmospheric pressure interfaces and require no matrix addition for ionization, allowing for samples to be investigated in their native state under ambient pressure conditions. We demonstrate the ability of laser ablation-aerosol mass spectrometry-chemical ionization mass spectrometry (LA-AMS-CIMS) to create 2D images of both standard compounds and complex mixtures. Finally, the results suggest that LA-AMS-CIMS, particularly when combined with advanced data analysis methods, could have broad applications in mass spectrometry imaging applications.« less

Laser Ablation-Aerosol Mass Spectrometry-Chemical Ionization Mass Spectrometry for Ambient Surface Imaging

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Berry, Jennifer L.; Day, Douglas A.; Elseberg, Tim

Mass spectrometry imaging is becoming an increasingly common analytical technique due to its ability to provide spatially resolved chemical information. In this paper, we report a novel imaging approach combining laser ablation with two mass spectrometric techniques, aerosol mass spectrometry and chemical ionization mass spectrometry, separately and in parallel. Both mass spectrometric methods provide the fast response, rapid data acquisition, low detection limits, and high-resolution peak separation desirable for imaging complex samples. Additionally, the two techniques provide complementary information with aerosol mass spectrometry providing near universal detection of all aerosol molecules and chemical ionization mass spectrometry with a heated inletmore » providing molecular-level detail of both gases and aerosols. The two techniques operate with atmospheric pressure interfaces and require no matrix addition for ionization, allowing for samples to be investigated in their native state under ambient pressure conditions. We demonstrate the ability of laser ablation-aerosol mass spectrometry-chemical ionization mass spectrometry (LA-AMS-CIMS) to create 2D images of both standard compounds and complex mixtures. Finally, the results suggest that LA-AMS-CIMS, particularly when combined with advanced data analysis methods, could have broad applications in mass spectrometry imaging applications.« less

Picosecond laser fabricated Ag, Au and Ag-Au nanoparticles for detecting ammonium perchlorate using a portable Raman spectrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Byram, Chandu; Moram, Sree Sathya Bharathi; Soma, Venugopal Rao

2018-04-01

In this paper, we present the results from fabrication studies of Ag, Au, and Ag-Au alloy nanoparticles (NPs) using picosecond laser ablation technique in the presence of liquid media. The alloy formation in the NPs was confirmed from UV-Visible measurements. The shape and crystallinity of NPs were investigated by using high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), selected area diffraction pattern (SAED) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The SERS effect of fabricated NPs was tested with methylene blue and an explosive molecule (ammonium perchlorate) using a portable Raman spectrometer and achieved EFs of ˜106.

Mini ion trap mass spectrometer

DOEpatents

Dietrich, Daniel D.; Keville, Robert F.

1995-01-01

An ion trap which operates in the regime between research ion traps which can detect ions with a mass resolution of better than 1:10.sup.9 and commercial mass spectrometers requiring 10.sup.4 ions with resolutions of a few hundred. The power consumption is kept to a minimum by the use of permanent magnets and a novel electron gun design. By Fourier analyzing the ion cyclotron resonance signals induced in the trap electrodes, a complete mass spectra in a single combined structure can be detected. An attribute of the ion trap mass spectrometer is that overall system size is drastically reduced due to combining a unique electron source and mass analyzer/detector in a single device. This enables portable low power mass spectrometers for the detection of environmental pollutants or illicit substances, as well as sensors for on board diagnostics to monitor engine performance or for active feedback in any process involving exhausting waste products.

Mini ion trap mass spectrometer

DOEpatents

Dietrich, D.D.; Keville, R.F.

1995-09-19

An ion trap is described which operates in the regime between research ion traps which can detect ions with a mass resolution of better than 1:10{sup 9} and commercial mass spectrometers requiring 10{sup 4} ions with resolutions of a few hundred. The power consumption is kept to a minimum by the use of permanent magnets and a novel electron gun design. By Fourier analyzing the ion cyclotron resonance signals induced in the trap electrodes, a complete mass spectra in a single combined structure can be detected. An attribute of the ion trap mass spectrometer is that overall system size is drastically reduced due to combining a unique electron source and mass analyzer/detector in a single device. This enables portable low power mass spectrometers for the detection of environmental pollutants or illicit substances, as well as sensors for on board diagnostics to monitor engine performance or for active feedback in any process involving exhausting waste products. 10 figs.

Electron source for a mini ion trap mass spectrometer

DOEpatents

Dietrich, Daniel D.; Keville, Robert F.

1995-01-01

An ion trap which operates in the regime between research ion traps which can detect ions with a mass resolution of better than 1:10.sup.9 and commercial mass spectrometers requiring 10.sup.4 ions with resolutions of a few hundred. The power consumption is kept to a minimum by the use of permanent magnets and a novel electron gun design. By Fourier analyzing the ion cyclotron resonance signals induced in the trap electrodes, a complete mass spectra in a single combined structure can be detected. An attribute of the ion trap mass spectrometer is that overall system size is drastically reduced due to combining a unique electron source and mass analyzer/detector in a single device. This enables portable low power mass spectrometers for the detection of environmental pollutants or illicit substances, as well as sensors for on board diagnostics to monitor engine performance or for active feedback in any process involving exhausting waste products.

Mass Spectrometer for Airborne Micro-Organisms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sinha, M. P.; Friedlander, S. K.

1986-01-01

Bacteria and other micro-organisms identified continously with aid of new technique for producing samples for mass spectrometer. Technique generates aerosol of organisms and feeds to spectrometer. Given species of organism produces characteristic set of peaks in mass spectrum and thereby identified. Technique useful for monitoring bacterial makeup in environmental studies and in places where cleanliness is essential, such as hospital operating rooms, breweries, and pharmaceutical plants.

Spatially resolved in vivo plant metabolomics by laser ablation-based mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) techniques: LDI-MSI and LAESI

PubMed Central

Bartels, Benjamin; Svatoš, Aleš

2015-01-01

This short review aims to summarize the current developments and applications of mass spectrometry-based methods for in situ profiling and imaging of plants with minimal or no sample pre-treatment or manipulation. Infrared-laser ablation electrospray ionization and UV-laser desorption/ionization methods are reviewed. The underlying mechanisms of the ionization techniques–namely, laser ablation of biological samples and electrospray ionization–as well as variations of the LAESI ion source for specific targets of interest are described. PMID:26217345

DETERMINING ION COMPOSITIONS USING AN ACCURATE MASS, TRIPLE QUADRUPOLE MASS SPECTROMETER

EPA Science Inventory

For the past decade, we have used double focusing mass spectrometers to determine
compositions of ions observed in mass spectra produced from compounds introduced by GC
based on measured exact masses of the ions and their +1 and +2 isotopic profiles arising from atoms of ...

An In-Situ Rb-Sr Dating & Organics Characterization Instrument For A MER+ Sized Rover

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anderson, F.; Whitaker, T.; Nowicki, K.; Zacny, K.; Pierce, J.

2012-12-01

We posit that a Mars in-situ geochronology mission that will triage and validate samples for Mars Sample Return (MSR) is technically feasible in the 2018-2022 time frame and addresses the competing scientific, political, and fiscal requirements for flight in this decade.The mission must be responsive to the astrobiological and chronological science goals of the MEPAG, Decadal Survey (DS), and E2E-iSAG, and avoid the MSR appearance of long term political commitment and cost. These requirements can best be accomplished by a rover with a coring drill. JPL has reassessed the MER landing system performance, and determined that the system is capable of significantly higher landed mass (~40-60 kg plus reserve), allowing more sophisticated instruments to be carried. The instrument package is comprised of a time of flight (TOF) mass spectrometer combined with a laser desorption resonance ionization source to sensitively measure isobar free Rb-Sr isotopes for geochronology and organics characterization. The desorption laser is also used with a μRaman/LIBS for mineral characterization, which in combination with the TOF, will additionally provide measurements of K-Ar isotopes for a second form of radiometric dating. The laser desorption resonance ionization mass spectrometry (LDRIMS) technique avoids the interference and mass resolution issues associated with geochronology measurements, and has miniaturization potential. A sample is placed in the TOF mass spectrometer and surface atoms, molecules, and ions are desorbed with a 213 nm laser. Ions are suppressed by an electric field and the plume of expanding particles is present for many μs, during which it is first illuminated with laser light tuned to ionize only Sr, and then 1-3 μs later, for Rb. We have partially miniaturized the instrument, including Sr lasers, ablation laser, and mass spectrometer, and will soon to start using the instrument for field measurements. Our current prototype can measure the isotope ratio of lab standards with 10 ppm net Sr or Rb to a precision of ±0.1% (1σ), with a sensitivity of 1:10^10 in ~15 minutes. Before working with high value samples, we are validating the technique on terrestrial materials such as the Boulder Creek Granite (BCG). Using LDRIMS, we have succeeded at producing a moderate precision date for BCG of 1.72±0.087 Ga (n=288, MSWD=1; ±0.60 Ga for MSWD=2). Our mission feeds forward into MSR by validating that the collected samples are astrobiologically and geochronologically relevant, and triages those samples by scientific priority for return by MSR. Figure 1: Calibrated repeat isochron of the BCG.

Laser dissection sampling modes for direct mass spectral analysis [using a hybrid optical microscopy/laser ablation liquid vortex capture/electrospray ionization system

DOE PAGES

Cahill, John F.; Kertesz, Vilmos; Van Berkel, Gary J.

2016-02-01

Here, laser microdissection coupled directly with mass spectrometry provides the capability of on-line analysis of substrates with high spatial resolution, high collection efficiency, and freedom on shape and size of the sampling area. Establishing the merits and capabilities of the different sampling modes that the system provides is necessary in order to select the best sampling mode for characterizing analytically challenging samples. The capabilities of laser ablation spot sampling, laser ablation raster sampling, and laser 'cut and drop' sampling modes of a hybrid optical microscopy/laser ablation liquid vortex capture electrospray ionization mass spectrometry system were compared for the analysis ofmore » single cells and tissue. Single Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cells were monitored for their monogalactosyldiacylglycerol (MGDG) and diacylglyceryltrimethylhomo-Ser (DGTS) lipid content using the laser spot sampling mode, which was capable of ablating individual cells (4-15 m) even when agglomerated together. Turbid Allium Cepa cells (150 m) having unique shapes difficult to precisely measure using the other sampling modes could be ablated in their entirety using laser raster sampling. Intact microdissections of specific regions of a cocaine-dosed mouse brain tissue were compared using laser 'cut and drop' sampling. Since in laser 'cut and drop' sampling whole and otherwise unmodified sections are captured into the probe, 100% collection efficiencies were achieved. Laser ablation spot sampling has the highest spatial resolution of any sampling mode, while laser ablation raster sampling has the highest sampling area adaptability of the sampling modes. In conclusion, laser ablation spot sampling has the highest spatial resolution of any sampling mode, useful in this case for the analysis of single cells. Laser ablation raster sampling was best for sampling regions with unique shapes that are difficult to measure using other sampling modes. Laser 'cut and drop' sampling can be used for cases where the highest sensitivity is needed, for example, monitoring drugs present in trace amounts in tissue.« less

Comprehensive studies of ultrashort laser pulse ablation of tin target at terawatt power

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elsied, Ahmed M.; Diwakar, Prasoon K.; Hassanein, Ahmed

2018-01-01

The fundamental properties of ultrashort laser interactions with metals using up to terawatt power were comprehensively studied, i.e., specifically mass ablation, nanoparticle formation, and ion dynamics using multitude of diagnostic techniques. Results of this study can be useful in many fields of research including spectroscopy, micromachining, thin film fabrication, particle acceleration, physics of warm dense matter, and equation-of-state determination. A Ti:Sapphire femtosecond laser system (110 mJ maximum energy, 40 fs, 800 nm, P-polarized, single pulse mode) was used, which delivered up to 3 terawatt laser power to ablate 1 mm tin film in vacuum. The experimental analysis includes the effect of the incident laser fluence on the ablated mass, size of the ablated area, and depth of ablation using white light profilometer. Atomic force microscope was used to measure the emitted particles size distribution at different laser fluence. Faraday cup (FC) detector was used to analyze the emitted ions flux by measuring the velocity, and the total charge of the emitted ions. The study shows that the size of emitted particles follows log-normal distribution with peak shifts depending on incident laser fluence. The size of the ablated particles ranges from 20 to 80 nm. The nanoparticles deposited on the wafer tend to aggregate and to be denser as the incident laser fluence increases as shown by AFM images. Laser ablation depth was found to increase logarithmically with laser fluence then leveling off at laser fluence > 400 J/cm2. The total ablated mass tends to increase logarithmically with laser fluence up to 60 J/cm2 while, increases gradually at higher fluence due to the increase in the ablated area. The measured ion emitted flux shows a linear dependence on laser fluence with two distinct regimes. Strong dependence on laser fluence was observed at fluences < 350 J/cm2. Also, a slight enhancement in ion velocity was observed with increasing laser fluence up to 350 J/cm2.

Laser dissection sampling modes for direct mass spectral analysis [using a hybrid optical microscopy/laser ablation liquid vortex capture/electrospray ionization system

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cahill, John F.; Kertesz, Vilmos; Van Berkel, Gary J.

Here, laser microdissection coupled directly with mass spectrometry provides the capability of on-line analysis of substrates with high spatial resolution, high collection efficiency, and freedom on shape and size of the sampling area. Establishing the merits and capabilities of the different sampling modes that the system provides is necessary in order to select the best sampling mode for characterizing analytically challenging samples. The capabilities of laser ablation spot sampling, laser ablation raster sampling, and laser 'cut and drop' sampling modes of a hybrid optical microscopy/laser ablation liquid vortex capture electrospray ionization mass spectrometry system were compared for the analysis ofmore » single cells and tissue. Single Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cells were monitored for their monogalactosyldiacylglycerol (MGDG) and diacylglyceryltrimethylhomo-Ser (DGTS) lipid content using the laser spot sampling mode, which was capable of ablating individual cells (4-15 m) even when agglomerated together. Turbid Allium Cepa cells (150 m) having unique shapes difficult to precisely measure using the other sampling modes could be ablated in their entirety using laser raster sampling. Intact microdissections of specific regions of a cocaine-dosed mouse brain tissue were compared using laser 'cut and drop' sampling. Since in laser 'cut and drop' sampling whole and otherwise unmodified sections are captured into the probe, 100% collection efficiencies were achieved. Laser ablation spot sampling has the highest spatial resolution of any sampling mode, while laser ablation raster sampling has the highest sampling area adaptability of the sampling modes. In conclusion, laser ablation spot sampling has the highest spatial resolution of any sampling mode, useful in this case for the analysis of single cells. Laser ablation raster sampling was best for sampling regions with unique shapes that are difficult to measure using other sampling modes. Laser 'cut and drop' sampling can be used for cases where the highest sensitivity is needed, for example, monitoring drugs present in trace amounts in tissue.« less

Laser ablation under different electron heat conduction models in inertial confinement fusion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Shuanggui; Ren, Guoli; Huo, Wen Yi

2018-06-01

In this paper, we study the influence of three different electron heat conduction models on the laser ablation of gold plane target. Different from previous studies, we concentrate on the plasma conditions, the conversion efficiency from laser into soft x rays and the scaling relation of mass ablation, which are relevant to hohlraum physics study in indirect drive inertial confinement fusion. We find that the simulated electron temperature in corona region is sensitive to the electron heat conduction models. For different electron heat conduction models, there are obvious differences in magnitude and spatial profile of electron temperature. For the flux limit model, the calculated conversion efficiency is sensitive to flux limiters. In the laser ablation of gold, most of the laser energies are converted into x rays. So the scaling relation of mass ablation rate is quite different from that of low Z materials.

Uranium Measurement Improvements at the Savannah River Technology Center

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Shick, C. Jr.

Uranium isotope ratio and isotope dilution methods by mass spectrometry are used to achieve sensitivity, precision and accuracy for various applications. This report presents recent progress made at SRTC in the analysis of minor isotopes of uranium. Comparison of routine measurements of NBL certified uranium (U005a) using the SRTC Three Stage Mass Spectrometer (3SMS) and the SRTC Single Stage Mass Spectrometer (SSMS). As expected, the three stage mass spectrometer yielded superior sensitivity, precision, and accuracy for this application.

Note: A versatile mass spectrometer chamber for molecular beam and temperature programmed desorption experiments

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tonks, James P., E-mail: james.tonks@awe.co.uk; AWE Plc, Aldermaston, Reading, Berkshire RG7 4PR; Galloway, Ewan C., E-mail: ewan.galloway@awe.co.uk

2016-08-15

A dual purpose mass spectrometer chamber capable of performing molecular beam scattering (MBS) and temperature programmed desorption (TPD) is detailed. Two simple features of this design allow it to perform these techniques. First, the diameter of entrance aperture to the mass spectrometer can be varied to maximize signal for TPD or to maximize angular resolution for MBS. Second, the mass spectrometer chamber can be radially translated so that it can be positioned close to the sample to maximize signal or far from the sample to maximize angular resolution. The performance of this system is described and compares well with systemsmore » designed for only one of these techniques.« less

Structural determination of intact proteins using mass spectrometry

DOEpatents

Kruppa, Gary [San Francisco, CA; Schoeniger, Joseph S [Oakland, CA; Young, Malin M [Livermore, CA

2008-05-06

The present invention relates to novel methods of determining the sequence and structure of proteins. Specifically, the present invention allows for the analysis of intact proteins within a mass spectrometer. Therefore, preparatory separations need not be performed prior to introducing a protein sample into the mass spectrometer. Also disclosed herein are new instrumental developments for enhancing the signal from the desired modified proteins, methods for producing controlled protein fragments in the mass spectrometer, eliminating complex microseparations, and protein preparatory chemical steps necessary for cross-linking based protein structure determination.Additionally, the preferred method of the present invention involves the determination of protein structures utilizing a top-down analysis of protein structures to search for covalent modifications. In the preferred method, intact proteins are ionized and fragmented within the mass spectrometer.

A COMPARISON OF PARTICLE MASS SPECTROMETERS DURING THE 1999 ATLANTA SUPERSITES EXPERIMENT

EPA Science Inventory

During the Atlanta SuperSite Experiment, four particle mass spectrometers were operated together for the first time: NOAA's PALMS (Particle Analysis by Laser Mass Spectrometry), U. C. Riverside's ATOFMS (Aerosol Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry), U. Delaware's RSMS-II (Rapid Si...

Illustrating the Basic Functioning of Mass Analyzers in Mass Spectrometers with Ball-Rolling Mechanisms

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Horikoshi, Ryo; Takeiri, Fumitaka; Mikita, Riho; Kobayashi, Yoji; Kageyama, Hiroshi

2017-01-01

A unique demonstration with ball-rolling mechanisms has been developed to illustrate the basic principles of mass analyzers as components of mass spectrometers. Three ball-rolling mechanisms mimicking the currently used mass analyzers (i.e., a quadrupole mass filter, a magnetic sector, and a time-of- flight) have been constructed. Each mechanism…

Direct Impact Corona Ionization of Bacteria for Rapid, Reproducible Identification via Spectral Pattern Recognition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alusta, Pierre; Buzatu, Dan; Tarasenko, Olga; Wilkes, Jon; Darsey, Jerry

2011-06-01

A novel atmospheric pressure ionization process, Direct Impact Corona Ionization (DICI), is described here. In this process, a corona impinges onto the flat surface of a stainless steel pin carrying a thin film of dried bacterial suspension, the analyte. Two electrodes—a corona electrode and the sample pin—are immersed in hot inert He gas flux, flowing past them towards a 0.4 mm orifice leading to a mass spectrometer analyzer. An electric potential of 1.5-3.0 kV is placed between the two. At distances less than 1 cm, an intermittent arc is formed. At approximately 4 mm, the arc becomes a continuous corona discharge (plasma). The plasma is hot enough to: A) locally melt the impact zone on the steel pin, and B) ablate the dry thin bacterial film deposited on the metal pin. Biomolecular ions as heavy as 790 m/z are generated. Mass spectral fingerprints of bacteria are obtained with a high degree of reproducibility by selecting the highest intensity of an "indicator ion", 560.5 m/z or another relatively heavy ion whose appearance signals efficient vaporization of low volatility components.

Comparison of mineral dust and droplet residuals measured with two single particle aerosol mass spectrometers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wonaschütz, Anna; Ludwig, Wolfgang; Zawadowicz, Maria; Hiranuma, Naruki; Hitzenberger, Regina; Cziczo, Daniel; DeMott, Paul; Möhler, Ottmar

2017-04-01

Single Particle mass spectrometers are used to gain information on the chemical composition of individual aerosol particles, aerosol mixing state, and other valuable aerosol characteristics. During the Mass Spectrometry Intercomparison at the Fifth Ice Nucleation (FIN-01) Workshop, the new LAAPTOF single particle aerosol mass spectrometer (AeroMegt GmbH) was conducting simultaneous measurements together with the PALMS (Particle Analysis by Laser Mass Spectrometry) instrument. The aerosol particles were sampled from the AIDA chamber during ice cloud expansion experiments. Samples of mineral dust and ice droplet residuals were measured simultaneously. In this work, three expansion experiments are chosen for a comparison between the two mass spectrometers. A fuzzy clustering routine is used to group the spectra. Cluster centers describing the ensemble of particles are compared. First results show that while differences in the peak heights are likely due to the use of an amplifier in PALMS, cluster centers are comparable.

Rocket-borne time-of-flight mass spectrometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reiter, R. F.

1976-01-01

Theoretical and numerical analyses are made of planar, cylindrical and spherical-electrode two-field time-of-flight mass spectrometers in order to optimize their operating conditions. A method is introduced which can improve the resolving power of these instruments by a factor of 7.5. Potential barrier gating in time-of-flight mass spectrometers is also analyzed. Experimental studies of a miniature cylindrical-electrode and a hemispherical-electrode time-of-flight mass spectrometer are presented. Their sensitivity and ability to operate at D-region pressures with an open source make them ideal instruments for D-region ion composition measurements. A sounding rocket experiment package carrying a cylindrical electrode time-of-flight mass spectrometer was launched. The data indicate that essentially 100% of the positive electric charge on positive ions is carried by ions with mass-to-charge ratios greater than 500 below an altitude of 92 km. These heavy charge carriers were present at altitudes up to about 100 km.

MS/MS studies on the selective on-line detection of sesquiterpenes using a Flowing Afterglow-Tandem Mass Spectrometer (FA-TMS)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rimetz-Planchon, J.; Dhooghe, F.; Schoon, N.; Vanhaecke, F.; Amelynck, C.

2011-04-01

A Flowing Afterglow-Tandem Mass Spectrometer (FA-TMS) was used to investigate the feasibility of selective on-line detection of a series of seven sesquiterpenes (SQTs). These SQTs were chemically ionized by either H3O+ or NO+ reagent ions in the FA, resulting among others in protonated SQT and SQT molecular ions, respectively. These and other Chemical Ionization (CI) product ions were subsequently subjected to dissociation by collisions with Ar atoms in the collision cell of the tandem mass spectrometer. The fragmentation spectra show similarities with mass spectra obtained for these compounds with other instruments such as a Proton Transfer Reaction-Linear Ion Trap (PTR-LIT), a Proton Transfer Reaction-Mass Spectrometer (PTR-MS), a Triple Quadrupole-Mass Spectrometer (QqQ-MS) and a Selected Ion Flow Tube-Mass Spectrometer (SIFT-MS). Fragmentation of protonated SQT is characterized by fragment ions at the same masses but with different intensities for the individual SQT. Distinction of SQTs is based on well-chosen intensity ratios and collision energies. The fragmentation patterns of SQT molecular ions show specific fragment ion tracers at m/z 119, m/z162, m/z 137 and m/z 131 for α-cedrene, δ-neoclovene, isolongifolene and α-humulene, respectively. Consequently, chemical ionization of SQT by NO+, followed by MS/MS of SQT+ seems to open a way for selective quantification of SQTs in mixtures.

Spectroscopy Measurements on Ablation Testing in High Enthalpy Plasma Flows

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-11-01

sample as well as the recession rate. Further, the chemical composition of the free- stream and the surrounding gas layer in front of the sample...of the samples due to ablation (mass loss & surface recession ), different temperature measurements (surface & inside) and spectroscopic results...25 5 MEASUREMENT RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS ................................................................ 26 5.1 MASS LOSS AND RECESSION

Continued Development of In Situ Geochronology for Planetary Missions Using KArLE (Potassium-Argon-Laser Experiment)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Devismes, Damien; Cohen, Barbara

2016-01-01

Since these techniques are very new and as they have never been used or this purpose. they will need to be replicated by several independent studies. These techniques may be very important if the optical imaging encounters difficulties, for example, if a sample is made of very dark or monochromatic material and in the case of very deep pits (>500 microns) Based on the preliminary results, the LIBS continuum technique is more appropriate to the large pits produced by long ablations The relationship may work best homogeneous samples, but the continuum is collected with every LIBS analysis so does not require any addition to the experimental suite of techniques. The integration of a QCMB in the ablation chamber may be a very interesting solution to determine the ablated mass. Even if it only measures a fraction of the total mass, its sensitivity should be able to weigh hundreds of nanograms accumulated on the crystal during ablation and relate it to the actual ablated mass. In the future. these options may help in situ K-Ar dating to give the age of the rock with the best accuracy and precision.

First beryllium capsule implosions on the National Ignition Facility

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kline, J. L.; Yi, S. A.; Simakov, A. N.

2016-05-15

The first indirect drive implosion experiments using Beryllium (Be) capsules at the National Ignition Facility confirm the superior ablation properties and elucidate possible Be-ablator issues such as hohlraum filling by ablator material. Since the 1990s, Be has been the preferred Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF) ablator because of its higher mass ablation rate compared to that of carbon-based ablators. This enables ICF target designs with higher implosion velocities at lower radiation temperatures and improved hydrodynamic stability through greater ablative stabilization. Recent experiments to demonstrate the viability of Be ablator target designs measured the backscattered laser energy, capsule implosion velocity, core implosionmore » shape from self-emission, and in-flight capsule shape from backlit imaging. The laser backscatter is similar to that from comparable plastic (CH) targets under the same hohlraum conditions. Implosion velocity measurements from backlit streaked radiography show that laser energy coupling to the hohlraum wall is comparable to plastic ablators. The measured implosion shape indicates no significant reduction of laser energy from the inner laser cone beams reaching the hohlraum wall as compared with plastic and high-density carbon ablators. These results indicate that the high mass ablation rate for beryllium capsules does not significantly alter hohlraum energetics. In addition, these data, together with data for low fill-density hohlraum performance, indicate that laser power multipliers, required to reconcile simulations with experimental observations, are likely due to our limited understanding of the hohlraum rather than the capsule physics since similar multipliers are needed for both Be and CH capsules as seen in experiments.« less

First beryllium capsule implosions on the National Ignition Facility

DOE PAGES

Kline, J. L.; Yi, S. A.; Simakov, A. N.; ...

2016-05-01

The first indirect drive implosion experiments using Beryllium (Be) capsules at the National Ignition Facility confirm the superior ablation properties and elucidate possible Be-ablator issues such as hohlraum filling by ablator material. Since the 1990s, Be has been the preferred Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF) ablator because of its higher mass ablation rate compared to that of carbon-based ablators. This enables ICF target designs with higher implosion velocities at lower radiation temperatures and improved hydrodynamic stability through greater ablative stabilization. Recent experiments to demonstrate the viability of Be ablator target designs measured the backscattered laser energy, capsule implosion velocity, core implosionmore » shape from self-emission, and in-flight capsule shape from backlit imaging. The laser backscatter is similar to that from comparable plastic (CH) targets under the same hohlraum conditions. Implosion velocity measurements from backlit streaked radiography show that laser energy coupling to the hohlraum wall is comparable to plastic ablators. The measured implosion shape indicates no significant reduction of laser energy from the inner laser cone beams reaching the hohlraum wall as compared with plastic and high-density carbon ablators. These results indicate that the high mass ablation rate for beryllium capsules does not significantly alter hohlraum energetics. In addition, these data, together with data for low fill-density hohlraum performance, indicate that laser power multipliers, required to reconcile simulations with experimental observations, are likely due to our limited understanding of the hohlraum rather than the capsule physics since similar multipliers are needed for both Be and CH capsules as seen in experiments.« less

Conceptual design of the gamma-to-electron magnetic spectrometer for the National Ignition Facility

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kim, Y., E-mail: yhkim@lanl.gov; Herrmann, H. W.; Jorgenson, H. J.

2014-11-15

The Gamma-to-Electron Magnetic Spectrometer (GEMS) diagnostic is designed to measure the prompt γ-ray energy spectrum during high yield deuterium-tritium (DT) implosions at the National Ignition Facility (NIF). The prompt γ-ray spectrum will provide “burn-averaged” observables, including total DT fusion yield, total areal density (ρR), ablator ρR, and fuel ρR. These burn-averaged observables are unique because they are essentially averaged over 4π, providing a global reference for the line-of-sight-specific measurements typical of x-ray and neutron diagnostics. The GEMS conceptual design meets the physics-based requirements: ΔE/E = 3%–5% can be achieved in the range of 2–25 MeV γ-ray energy. Minimum DT neutronmore » yields required for 15% measurement uncertainty at low-resolution mode are: 5 × 10{sup 14} DT-n for ablator ρR (at 0.2 g/cm{sup 2}); 2 × 10{sup 15} DT-n for total DT yield (at 4.2 × 10{sup −5} γ/n); and 1 × 10{sup 16} DT-n for fuel ρR (at 1 g/cm{sup 2})« less

Conceptual design of the gamma-to-electron magnetic spectrometer for the National Ignition Facility

DOE PAGES

Kim, Y.; Herrmann, H. W.; Jorgenson, H. J.; ...

2014-08-01

The Gamma-to-Electron Magnetic Spectrometer (GEMS) diagnostic is designed to measure the prompt γ-ray energy spectrum during high yield deuterium-tritium (DT) implosions at the National Ignition Facility (NIF). The prompt γ-ray spectrum will provide ‘burn-averaged’ observables, including total DT fusion yield, total areal density (ρR), ablator ρR, and fuel ρR. These burn-averaged observables are unique because they are essentially averaged over 4π, providing a global reference for the line-of-sight-specific measurements typical of x-ray and neutron diagnostics. The GEMS conceptual design meets the physics-based requirements: ΔE/E = 3 - 5% can be achieved in the range of 2 - 25 MeV γ-raymore » energy. Minimum DT neutron yields required for 15% measurement uncertainty at low-resolution mode are: 5×10 14 DT-n for ablator ρR (at 0.2 g/cm 2); 2×10 15 DT-n for total DT yield (at 4.2×10 -5γ /n); and 1×10 16 DT-n for fuel ρR (at 1 g/cm 2).« less

Profiling of patterned metal layers by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bi, Melody; Ruiz, Antonio M.; Gornushkin, Igor; Smith, Ben W.; Winefordner, James D.

2000-02-01

Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) was used for profiling patterned thin metal layers on a polymer/silicon substrate. The parameters of the laser and ICP-MS operating conditions have been studied and optimized for this purpose. A new laser ablation chamber was designed and built to achieve the best spatial resolution. The results of the profiling by LA-ICP-MS were compared to those obtained from a laser ablation optical emission spectrometry (LA-OES) instrument, which measured the emission of the plasma at the sample surface, and thus, eliminated the time delay caused by the sample transport into the ICP-MS system. Emission spectra gave better spatial resolution than mass spectra. However, LA-ICP-MS provided much better sensitivity and was able to profile thin metal layers (on the order of a few nanometers) on the silicon surface. A lateral spatial resolution of 45 μm was achieved.

In-Situ Mass Balance Measurements and Morphology Study of Patsio Glacier, Himachal Pradesh, Western Himalaya

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Angchuk, T.; AL, R.; Mandal, A.; Soheb, M.; Bahuguna, I. M.; Singh, V.; Linda, A.

2016-12-01

The present ongoing study is oriented to do the detailed study of the Patsio glacier which is in the Bhaga Basin, Lahaul, Himachal Pradesh. Patsio glacier is a compound valley glacier survived by two prominent tributaries namely Eastern and Western. The two tributaries are facing opposite to each other. The Western tributary facing almost eastward shows higher melting as compared to Eastern tributary facing northwest. This is probably due to solar radiation and sunshine hour, as Western tributary receives high solar radiation and for longer duration. A series of supraglacial lakes which were connected to each other through supra channels were observed on the upper part of the ablation zone at an altitude range of 5100 m and 5300 m amsl. A dead ice covered with thick debris was observed below the current terminus. Despite the large variability of the mass balance in the different seasons Patsio glacier annual balance for the year 2012-2013 was found to be 0.04 ± 0.40 m w.e. the low values signifies that glacier has lost significant amount of mass in recent past and now it is near to the equilibrium state. Seasonal mass balance of Patsio glacier has shown wide range of variability in the mass balances. Patsio glacier receives most of the accumulation during the winter months and duration is long whereas, ablation season is short but quite significant. Monthly and daily variation has depicted that peak ablation months are July and August. The daily ablation in the month of August 2013 was found to be around 5 cm per day, probably due to air temperature. To have a clear picture of the meteorological parameters and its relation with glacier an AWS has set up on the Patsio glacier at an altitude of 5050 m amsl in June 2014. Seasonal mass balance gradients show that gradient was high during the early and late ablation seasons as compared to peak ablation season. The mass balance for the year 2010-2011 was slightly positive.

Influence and measurement of mass ablation in ICF implosions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Spears, B K; Hicks, D; Velsko, C

2007-09-05

Point design ignition capsules designed for the National Ignition Facility (NIF) currently use an x-ray-driven Be(Cu) ablator to compress the DT fuel. Ignition specifications require that the mass of unablated Be(Cu), called residual mass, be known to within 1% of the initial ablator mass when the fuel reaches peak velocity. The specifications also require that the implosion bang time, a surrogate measurement for implosion velocity, be known to +/- 50 ps RMS. These specifications guard against several capsule failure modes associated with low implosion velocity or low residual mass. Experiments designed to measure and to tune experimentally the amount ofmore » residual mass are being developed as part of the National Ignition Campaign (NIC). Tuning adjustments of the residual mass and peak velocity can be achieved using capsule and laser parameters. We currently plan to measure the residual mass using streaked radiographic imaging of surrogate tuning capsules. Alternative techniques to measure residual mass using activated Cu debris collection and proton spectrometry have also been developed. These developing techniques, together with bang time measurements, will allow us to tune ignition capsules to meet NIC specs.« less

The retarding ion mass spectrometer on dynamics Explorer-A. [measuring thermal plasma distribution

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chappell, C. R.; Fields, S. A.; Baugher, C. R.; Hoffman, J. H.; Hanson, W. B.; Wright, W. W.; Hammack, H. D.; Carignan, G. R.; Nagy, A. F.

1981-01-01

An instrument designed to measure the details of the thermal plasma distribution combines the ion temperature-determining capability of the retarding potential analyzer with the compositional capabilities of the mass spectrometer and adds multiple sensor heads to sample all directions relative to the spacecraft ram directions. The retarding ion mass spectrometer, its operational modes and calibration are described as well as the data reduction plan, and the anticipated results.

Highly sensitive solids mass spectrometer uses inert-gas ion source

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1966-01-01

Mass spectrometer provides a recorded analysis of solid material surfaces and bulk. A beam of high-energy inert-gas ions bombards the surface atoms of a sample and converts a percentage into an ionized vapor. The mass spectrum analyzer separates the vapor ionic constituents by mass-to-charge ratio.

Comparison of FTIR and Particle Mass Spectrometry for the Measurement of Paticulate Organic Nitrates

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bruns, Emily; Perraud, Veronique; Zelenyuk, Alla

2010-02-01

While multifunctional organic nitrates are formed during the atmospheric oxidation of volatile organic compounds, relatively little is known about their signatures in particle mass spectrometers. High resolution time-of-flight aerosol mass spectrometry (HR-ToF-AMS) was applied to NH4NO3, NaNO3 and isosorbide 5-mononitrate (IMN) particles, and to secondary organic aerosol (SOA) from NO3 radical reactions at 22 C and 1 atm in air with and pinene, 3-carene, limonene and isoprene. For comparison, single particle laser ablation mass spectra (SPLAT II) were also obtained for IMN and SOA from the pinene reaction. The mass spectra of all particles exhibit significant intensity at m/z 30,more » and for the SOA, weak peaks corresponding to various organic fragments containing nitrogen [CxHyNzOa]+ were identified using HR-ToF-AMS. The NO+/NO2+ ratios from HR-ToF-AMS were 10-15 for IMN and the SOA from the and pinene, 3-carene and limonene reactions, ~5 for the isoprene reaction, 2.4 for NH4NO3 and 80 for NaNO3. The N/H ratios from HR-ToF-AMS for the SOA were smaller by a factor of 2 to 4 than the -ONO2/C-H ratios measured using FTIR on particles impacted on ZnSe windows. While the NO+/NO2+ ratio may provide a generic indication of organic nitrates under some conditions, specific identification of particulate organic nitrates awaits further development of particle mass spectrometry techniques.« less

The effect of ultrafast laser wavelength on ablation properties and implications on sample introduction in inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

PubMed Central

LaHaye, N. L.; Harilal, S. S.; Diwakar, P. K.; Hassanein, A.; Kulkarni, P.

2015-01-01

We investigated the role of femtosecond (fs) laser wavelength on laser ablation (LA) and its relation to laser generated aerosol counts and particle distribution, inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) signal intensity, detection limits, and elemental fractionation. Four different NIST standard reference materials (610, 613, 615, and 616) were ablated using 400 nm and 800 nm fs laser pulses to study the effect of wavelength on laser ablation rate, accuracy, precision, and fractionation. Our results show that the detection limits are lower for 400 nm laser excitation than 800 nm laser excitation at lower laser energies but approximately equal at higher energies. Ablation threshold was also found to be lower for 400 nm than 800 nm laser excitation. Particle size distributions are very similar for 400 nm and 800 nm wavelengths; however, they differ significantly in counts at similar laser fluence levels. This study concludes that 400 nm LA is more beneficial for sample introduction in ICP-MS, particularly when lower laser energies are to be used for ablation. PMID:26640294

Application of an atmospheric pressure sampling mass spectrometer to chlorination reactions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jacobson, N. S.

1986-01-01

An atmospheric pressure mass spectrometric sampling system, based on a free jet expansion was used to study certain M-Cl-O reactions at high temperatures. The apparatus enables the volatile species from a 1-atm chemical process to be directly identified with a mass spectrometer which operates at approx. 10 to the minus 8th power torr. Studies for both pure metals and alloys are discussed. It is shown that this mass spectrometer system aids in identifying the volatile species, and provides fundamental information on the reaction mechanism.

Electron source for a mini ion trap mass spectrometer

DOEpatents

Dietrich, D.D.; Keville, R.F.

1995-12-19

An ion trap is described which operates in the regime between research ion traps which can detect ions with a mass resolution of better than 1:10{sup 9} and commercial mass spectrometers requiring 10{sup 4} ions with resolutions of a few hundred. The power consumption is kept to a minimum by the use of permanent magnets and a novel electron gun design. By Fourier analyzing the ion cyclotron resonance signals induced in the trap electrodes, a complete mass spectra in a single combined structure can be detected. An attribute of the ion trap mass spectrometer is that overall system size is drastically reduced due to combining a unique electron source and mass analyzer/detector in a single device. This enables portable low power mass spectrometers for the detection of environmental pollutants or illicit substances, as well as sensors for on board diagnostics to monitor engine performance or for active feedback in any process involving exhausting waste products. 10 figs.

Dustbuster: a New Generation Impact-ionization Time-of-flight Mass Spectrometer for in situ Analysis of Cosmic Dust

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Austin, D. E.; Ahrens, T. J.; Beauchamp, J. L.

2000-10-01

We have developed and tested a small impact-ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometer for analysis of cosmic dust, suitable for use on deep space missions. This mass spectrometer, named Dustbuster, incorporates a large target area and a reflectron, simultaneously optimizing mass resolution, sensitivity, and collection efficiency. Dust particles hitting the 65-cm2 target plate are partially ionized. The resulting ions are accelerated through a modified reflectron that focuses the ions in space and time to produce high-resolution spectra. The instrument, shown below, measures 10 x 10 x 20 cm, has a mass of 500 g, and consumes little power. Laser desorption ionization of metal and mineral samples (embedded in the impact plate) simulates particle impacts for instrument performance tests. Mass resolution in these experiments is near 200, permitting resolution of isotopes. The mass spectrometer can be combined with other instrument components to determine dust particle trajectories and sizes. This project was funded by NASA's Planetary Instrument Definition and Development Program.

Formation of high mass carbon cluster ions from laser ablation of polymers and thin carbon films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Creasy, William R.; Brenna, J. T.

1990-02-01

Three materials were studied by laser ablation/Fourier transform mass spectrometry, using 266 nm laser radiation: a copolymer of ethylene and tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), and a diamond-like carbon film (DLC). In each case, positive ion mass spectra exhibit primarily even-numbered, high mass carbon clusters (``fullerenes'') of the type previously reported for graphite ablation. In the case of ETFE, a large C+60 peak (``buckminsterfullerene'') was observed. The polymer spectra showed a strong dependence on the number of laser pulses on one spot and the laser power density. For ETFE, the fullerene ion relative intensity first increases and then decreases as a function of the number of laser pulses. For the DLC film, fullerenes are observed with a single laser pulse on a fresh spot of the sample. The results are interpreted in terms of a gas phase growth model for the fullerene ion formation.

Evolution of Cometary Activity at 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko as seen by ROSINA/Rosetta

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jäckel, A.; Altwegg, K.; Balsiger, H.; Calmonte, U.; Gasc, S.; Le Roy, L.; Rubin, M.; Tzou, C. Y.; Wurz, P.; Bieler, A.; Berthelier, J.-J.; Fiethe, B.; Hässig, M.; deKeyser, J.; Mall, U.; Rème, H.

2015-10-01

Since nine months the European Space Agency's spacecraft Rosetta, with the Rosetta Orbiter Spectrometer for Ion and Neutral Analysis (ROSINA) onboard, is in the comet escort phase. ROSINA is a suite of three instruments, consisting of the COmetary Pressure Sensor (COPS), the Double Focusing Mass Spectrometer (DFMS), and the Reflectron-type Time-Of-Flight (RTOF) mass spectrometer [1]. The two mass spectrometers measure in situ the neutral and ionized volatile material in the coma of comet 67P/Churyumov- Gerasimenko (67P/C-G). With COPS we are able to derive the total gas density, bulk velocities and temperatures of the coma.

EXTENDING THE USEFUL LIFE OF OLDER MASS SPECTROMETERS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Johnson, S.; Cordaro, J.; Holland, M.

2010-06-17

Thermal ionization and gas mass spectrometers are widely used across the Department of Energy (DOE) Complex and contractor laboratories. These instruments support critical missions, where high reliability and low measurement uncertainty are essential. A growing number of these mass spectrometers are significantly older than their original design life. The reality is that manufacturers have declared many of the instrument models obsolete, with direct replacement parts and service no longer available. Some of these obsolete models do not have a next generation, commercially available replacement. Today's budget conscious economy demands for the use of creative funds management. Therefore, the ability tomore » refurbish (or upgrade) these valuable analytical tools and extending their useful life is a cost effective option. The Savannah River Site (SRS) has the proven expertise to breathe new life into older mass spectrometers, at a significant cost savings compared to the purchase and installation of new instruments. A twenty-seven year old Finnigan MAT-261{trademark} Thermal Ionization Mass Spectrometer (TIMS), located at the SRS F/H Area Production Support Laboratory, has been successfully refurbished. Engineers from the Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) fabricated and installed the new electronics. These engineers also provide continued instrument maintenance services. With electronic component drawings being DOE Property, other DOE Complex laboratories have the option to extend the life of their aged Mass Spectrometers.« less

A five-collector system for the simultaneous measurement of argon isotope ratios in a static mass spectrometer

USGS Publications Warehouse

Stacey, J.S.; Sherrill, N.D.; Dalrymple, G.B.; Lanphere, M.A.; Carpenter, N.V.

1981-01-01

A system is described that utilizes five separate Faraday-cup collector assemblies, aligned along the focal plane of a mass spectrometer, to collect simultaneous argon ion beams at masses 36-40. Each collector has its own electrometer amplifier and analog-to-digital measuring channel, the outputs of which are processed by a minicomputer that also controls the mass spectrometer. The mass spectrometer utilizes a 90?? sector magnetic analyzer with a radius of 23 cm, in which some degree of z-direction focussing is provided for all the ion beams by the fringe field of the magnet. Simultaneous measurement of the ion beams helps to eliminate mass-spectrometer memory as a significant source of measurement error during an analysis. Isotope ratios stabilize between 7 and 9 s after sample admission into the spectrometer, and thereafter changes in the measured ratios are linear, typically to within ??0.02%. Thus the multi-collector arrangement permits very short extrapolation times for computation of initial ratios, and also provides the advantages of simultaneous measurement of the ion currents in that errors due to variations in ion beam intensity are minimized. A complete analysis takes less than 10 min, so that sample throughput can be greatly enhanced. In this instrument, the factor limiting analytical precision now lies in short-term apparent variations in the interchannel calibration factors. ?? 1981.

Single Species Dinoflagellate Cyst Carbon Isotope Ecology across the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sluijs, A.; Roij, L. V.; Frieling, J.; Laks, J.; Reichart, G. J.

2017-12-01

We present the first ever species-specific records of fossil dinoflagellate cyst stable carbon isotope ratios (δ13C). These records across a Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum section in New Jersey were established using a novel coupled laser ablation - isotope ratio mass spectrometer setup. The overall good correspondence with carbonate δ13C records across the characteristic PETM carbon isotope excursion indicates that the δ13C of dissolved inorganic carbon exerts a major control on dinocysts δ13C. Pronounced and consistent differences between species, however, reflect the differential physiological response to changing seawater carbonate chemistry following PETM carbon injection. Moreover, they reflect different habitats or life cycle processes, notably related to bloom intensity. Intriguingly, decreased inter-specimen variability during the PETM in a species that also drops in abundance suggests a more limited niche, either in time (seasonal) or space. This opens a new approach for ecological and evolutionary reconstructions based on organic microfossils.

High Precision Isotopic Analysis of Actinide Bearing Materials: Performance of a New Generation of Purpose Built Actinide Multi-Collector ICPMS Instruments

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Eiden, Gregory C.; Duffin, Andrew M.; Liezers, Martin

2014-11-14

Recently, a new class of multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometers (MC-ICPMS) has been introduced commercially that includes detector arrays purpose built for actinide measurements. These detector arrays significantly enhance the data quality possible for applications encountered in nuclear forensics. Two such instruments are described in this paper, the NeptunePlusTM, developed by Thermo-Fisher (Bremen, Germany), and the NuPlasma2, developed by Nu Instruments (Wrexham, UK). Research results are presented that have been obtained by the authors using the first commercial NeptunePlusTM. This paper also presents performance characteristics and results for traditional liquid introduction, including a means for ultra-trace detection via electrochemicalmore » separation prior to solution nebulization, as well as solid sample introduction with femtosecond-laser ablation. We also discuss the advantages and limitations of the current systems for detection of the transient signals associated with these two methods for introducing sample into the plasma.« less

Imaging mass spectrometer with mass tags

DOEpatents

Felton, James S.; Wu, Kuang Jen; Knize, Mark G.; Kulp, Kristen S.; Gray, Joe W.

2010-06-01

A method of analyzing biological material by exposing the biological material to a recognition element, that is coupled to a mass tag element, directing an ion beam of a mass spectrometer to the biological material, interrogating at least one region of interest area from the biological material and producing data, and distributing the data in plots.

Ultra-high-mass mass spectrometry with charge discrimination using cryogenic detectors

DOEpatents

Frank, Matthias; Mears, Carl A.; Labov, Simon E.; Benner, W. Henry

1999-01-01

An ultra-high-mass time-of-flight mass spectrometer using a cryogenic particle detector as an ion detector with charge discriminating capabilities. Cryogenic detectors have the potential for significantly improving the performance and sensitivity of time-of-flight mass spectrometers, and compared to ion multipliers they exhibit superior sensitivity for high-mass, slow-moving macromolecular ions and can be used as "stop" detectors in time-of-flight applications. In addition, their energy resolving capability can be used to measure the charge state of the ions. Charge discrimination is very valuable in all time-of-flight mass spectrometers. Using a cryogenically-cooled Nb-Al.sub.2 O.sub.3 -Nb superconductor-insulator-superconductor (SIS) tunnel junction (STJ) detector operating at 1.3 K as an ion detector in a time-of-flight mass spectrometer for large biomolecules it was found that the STJ detector has charge discrimination capabilities. Since the cryogenic STJ detector responds to ion energy and does not rely on secondary electron production, as in the conventionally used microchannel plate (MCP) detectors, the cryogenic detector therefore detects large molecular ions with a velocity-independent efficiency approaching 100%.

A volumetric ablation model of EPDM considering complex physicochemical process in porous structure of char layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Liu; Xiao-Jing, Yu; Jian-Ming, Ma; Yi-Wen, Guan; Jiang, Li; Qiang, Li; Sa, Yang

2017-06-01

A volumetric ablation model for EPDM (ethylene- propylene-diene monomer) is established in this paper. This model considers the complex physicochemical process in the porous structure of a char layer. An ablation physics model based on a porous structure of a char layer and another model of heterogeneous volumetric ablation char layer physics are then built. In the model, porosity is used to describe the porous structure of a char layer. Gas diffusion and chemical reactions are introduced to the entire porous structure. Through detailed formation analysis, the causes of the compact or loose structure in the char layer and chemical vapor deposition (CVD) reaction between pyrolysis gas and char layer skeleton are introduced. The Arrhenius formula is adopted to determine the methods for calculating carbon deposition rate C which is the consumption rate caused by thermochemical reactions in the char layer, and porosity evolution. The critical porosity value is used as a criterion for char layer porous structure failure under gas flow and particle erosion. This critical porosity value is obtained by fitting experimental parameters and surface porosity of the char layer. Linear ablation and mass ablation rates are confirmed with the critical porosity value. Results of linear ablation and mass ablation rate calculations generally coincide with experimental results, suggesting that the ablation analysis proposed in this paper can accurately reflect practical situations and that the physics and mathematics models built are accurate and reasonable.

Mass spectrometry and inhomogeneous ion optics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

White, F. A.

1973-01-01

Work done in several areas to advance the state of the art of magnetic mass spectrometers is described. The calculations and data necessary for the design of inhomogeneous field mass spectrometers, and the calculation of ion trajectories through such fields are presented. The development and testing of solid state ion detection devices providing the capability of counting single ions is discussed. New techniques in the preparation and operation of thermal-ionization ion sources are described. Data obtained on the concentrations of copper in rainfall and uranium in air samples using the improved thermal ionization techniques are presented. The design of a closed system static mass spectrometer for isotopic analyses is discussed. A summary of instrumental aspects of a four-stage mass spectrometer comprising two electrostatic and two 90 deg. magnetic lenses with a 122-cm radius used to study the interaction of ions with solids is presented.

Identification and Quantitative Measurements of Chemical Species by Mass Spectrometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zondlo, Mark A.; Bomse, David S.

2005-01-01

The development of a miniature gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer system for the measurement of chemical species of interest to combustion is described. The completed system is a fully-contained, automated instrument consisting of a sampling inlet, a small-scale gas chromatograph, a miniature, quadrupole mass spectrometer, vacuum pumps, and software. A pair of computer-driven valves controls the gas sampling and introduction to the chromatographic column. The column has a stainless steel exterior and a silica interior, and contains an adsorbent of that is used to separate organic species. The detection system is based on a quadrupole mass spectrometer consisting of a micropole array, electrometer, and a computer interface. The vacuum system has two miniature pumps to maintain the low pressure needed for the mass spectrometer. A laptop computer uses custom software to control the entire system and collect the data. In a laboratory demonstration, the system separated calibration mixtures containing 1000 ppm of alkanes and alkenes.

Dynamic behavior of photoablation products of corneal tissue in the mid-IR: a study with FELIX

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Auerhammer, J. M.; Walker, R.; van der Meer, A. F. G.; Jean, B.

The properties of pulsed IR-laser ablation of biological soft tissue (porcine cornea) were studied in vitro systematically and quantitatively with a free-electron laser in the wavelength range 6<=λ<=20 μm at fluences ranging from 3.1 to 9.4 J/cm2. Dynamic parameters such as the extension of the ablation cloud, the initial velocity and momentum of the ablated particles as well as the ablation threshold, the ablated mass, and the particle size were investigated. The ablation plume was made visible with a stroboscopic technique. For a fluence of 3.1 J/cm2 the average initial velocity of the ejected particles was deduced from the extension of the plume to range from 120-400 m/s. Measurements of the recoil momentum using a sensitive pendulum led to values between 0.5 and 2.0 mmg/s. All measured properties were related to the spectroscopically determined absorption coefficient of cornea αcornea. Where absorption due to proteins is high (at λ=6.2 and 6.5 μm), ablated mass, velocity and recoil momentum behave according to αcornea. For the first time, variations of the ablation plume from pulse to pulse were observed. Those, as well as the particle size, not only depend on the absorption coefficient, but also on the predominant absorber.

Shielding effects in the laser-generated copper plasma under reduced pressures of He atmosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burger, M.; Pantić, D.; Nikolić, Z.; Djeniže, S.

2016-02-01

Irradiation of samples was performed with 6 ns, 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser. For an applied irradiance range (108-1010 W/cm2), the ablation process exhibits non-linear dependance. Ablated mass of the sample was directly determined using 100 ng resolution mass comparator after ablation under various pressures of helium. The ablation rates were dictated by plasma formation mechanisms as well as ambient conditions. However, the surrounding atmosphere did not significantly affect the value of threshold irradiance of about 2 ×109 W /cm2 for the onset of ablation mechanism change. This value is additionally verified via spectroscopic information from Cu I lines in the range from 0.4 to 1 μs after the laser pulse. Behaviour of spectral lines was monitored with respect to the laser pulse energy. Plasma diagnostics of axial electron density and excitation temperature distributions was performed under He pressure of 200 Torr. An influence of the possible shielding mechanisms responsible for the plasma absorption is discussed.

Thermal Protection System Mass Estimating Relationships For Blunt-Body, Earth Entry Spacecraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sepka, Steven A.; Samareh, Jamshid A.

2015-01-01

Mass estimating relationships (MERs) are developed to predict the amount of thermal protection system (TPS) necessary for safe Earth entry for blunt-body spacecraft using simple correlations that are non-ITAR and closely match estimates from NASA's highfidelity ablation modeling tool, the Fully Implicit Ablation and Thermal Analysis Program (FIAT). These MERs provide a first order estimate for rapid feasibility studies. There are 840 different trajectories considered in this study, and each TPS MER has a peak heating limit. MERs for the vehicle forebody include the ablators Phenolic Impregnated Carbon Ablator (PICA) and Carbon Phenolic atop Advanced Carbon-Carbon. For the aftbody, the materials are Silicone Impregnated Reusable Ceramic Ablator (SIRCA), Acusil II, SLA- 561V, and LI-900. The MERs are accurate to within 14% (at one standard deviation) of FIAT prediction, and the most any MER can under predict FIAT TPS thickness is 18.7%. This work focuses on the development of these MERs, the resulting equations, model limitations, and model accuracy.

Evaluation of species-dependent detection efficiencies in the aerosol mass spectrometer

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Mass concentrations of chemical species calculated from the aerosol mass spectrometer (AMS) depend on two factors: particle collection efficiency (CE) and relative ionization efficiency (RIE, relative to the primary calibrant ammonium nitrate). While previous studies have characterized CE, RIE is re...

Low pressure laser ablation coupled to inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fliegel, Daniel; Günther, Detlef

2006-07-01

The particle size distribution in laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry is known to be a critical parameter for complete vaporization of particles. Any strategy to reduce the particle size distribution of laser generated aerosols has the potential to increase the ion signal intensity and to reduce fractionation effects. Due to the fact that vapor generation, nucleation, condensation, and agglomeration take place within an extremely short period of time, ablation under atmospheric pressure might not allow influencing these processes while under reduced pressure condition the cooling of the aerosol and therefore the condensation is expected to be slower. In this study, a low pressure laser ablation cell for the generation of laser aerosols was coupled to an ICP-MS. In contrast to the previously developed trapped ablation mode, the newly designed cell allows the adjustment of the pressure in the ablation cell between 20 and 1400 mbar prior to the ablation. Ablation experiments carried out using this configuration showed a dependence of the aerosol properties (size distribution and particle structure) on the ablation cell pressure. The intensity ratio U/Th measured as a figure of merit for complete vaporization within the ICP indicated a change in the aerosol structure at approximately 500 mbar toward smaller particle size. A significant difference between low pressure and at ambient pressure ablated aerosol was observed. The intensity ratios (U/Th) of the ablated sample moves closer to the bulk composition at lower pressures at the expense of sensitivity. Therefore the decrease in the ICP-MS signal intensity in the low pressure cell can be attributed to vapor deposition within the ablation cell walls. Moreover, scanning electron microscope images of aerosols collected on filters after the low pressure ablation cell suggest the possibility of a slower cooling velocity of the aerosol, which was observed in the condensed material on the surface of ejected spherical particles. The expansion of the laser aerosol was also investigated using polished brass substrates in the expansion path-way for particle collection.

Study to evaluate the integration of a mass spectrometer with a wet chemistry instrument. [for amino acid analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1974-01-01

The charactertistics and performance capability of the current Viking '75 Gas Chromatograph/Mass Spectrometer Instrument are reviewed and documented for the purpose of possible integration with a wet chemistry instrument. Interface, high mass discrimination, and vacuum requirements were determined in a simulated flight investigation. Suggestions for future investigations, tradeoff studies, and design modifications are presented, along with the results of column bleed measurements. A preliminary design of an integrated Wet Chemistry/Mass Spectrometer instrument for amino acid analysis is shown, including estimates of additional weight, volume, and power requirements.

Definition Study of a Coordinated Group of Experiments to Measure and Monitor the in situ Plasma and Electromagnetic Environment of a Polar Orbiting Space Shuttle.

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-09-01

instruments should be included in the SACS package: Mass Spectrometer - The ion/neutral quadrupole mass spectrometer obtains composition measurements of...contamination. The preferred direction is into the RAM. The field-of-view is _ 200 and t ie mass range is 1 to 64 AMU.- Energetic Particle Deteotors...Dimensions Dimensions Weight Item Stowed (cm) Deployed (cm) (kg) Ejected Recovery Mass Spectrometer N/A 15x7x7 bxbx6 12.7 N/A N/A Energetic Particle Det N

Method and apparatus for multispray emitter for mass spectrometry

DOEpatents

Smith, Richard D.; Tang, Keqi; Lin, Yuehe

2004-12-14

A method and apparatus that utilizes two or more emitters simultaneously to form an electrospray of a sample that is then directed into a mass spectrometer, thereby increasing the total ion current introduced into an electrospray ionization mass spectrometer, given a liquid flow rate of a sample. The method and apparatus are most conveniently constructed as an array of spray emitters fabricated on a single chip, however, the present invention encompasses any apparatus wherein two or more emitters are simultaneously utilized to form an electrospray of a sample that is then directed into a mass spectrometer.

Impact of the retained heat shield concept on science instruments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kessler, W. C.

1974-01-01

Associated interface problems between the mass spectrometer and the actual probe design are considered along with the problem of producing a clean sample to the gas detection instrument. Of particular interest is the penetration of the heat shield by the mass spectrometer sampling tube, because it must be demonstrated that the sampling tube can penetrate the heat shield and that the mass spectrometer can be supplied with a contaminant-free gas sample, free of contaminants from out-gassing of the heat shield.

Ultra-Sensitive Elemental Analysis Using Plasmas 3.For Understanding an Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sakata, Kenichi

Aplasma-interface is considered the most mysterious part of an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer system in terms of understanding its operational mechanism. After a brief explanation of the basic structure of the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer and how it works, the plasma-interface is discussed in regard to its complex operation and approaches to investigating its behavior. In particular, the position and shape of the plasma boundary seem to be important to understand the instrument's sensitivity.

Soft ionization device with characterization systems and methods of manufacture

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hartley, Frank T. (Inventor)

2004-01-01

Various configurations of characterization systems such as ion mobility spectrometers and mass spectrometers are disclosed that are coupled to an ionization device. The ionization device is formed of a membrane that houses electrodes therein that are located closer to one another than the mean free path of the gas being ionized. Small voltages across the electrodes generate large electric fields which act to ionize substantially all molecules passing therethrough without fracture. Methods to manufacture the mass spectrometer and ion mobility spectrometer systems are also described.

Instrument Suite for Vertical Characterization of the Ionosphere-Thermosphere System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Herrero, Federico; Jones, Hollis; Finne, Theodore; Nicholas, Andrew

2012-01-01

A document describes a suite that provides four simultaneous ion and neutral-atom measurements as a function of altitude, with variable sensitivity for neutral atmospheric species. The variable sensitivity makes it possible to extend the measurements over the altitude range of 100 to more than 700 km. The four instruments in the suite are (1) a neutral wind-temperature spectrometer (WTS), (2) an ion-drift ion-temperature spectrometer (IDTS), (3) a neutral mass spectrometer (NMS), and (4) an ion mass spectrometer (IMS).

Fast scan control for deflection type mass spectrometers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yeager, P. R.; Gaetano, G.; Hughes, D. B. (Inventor)

1974-01-01

A high speed scan device is reported that allows most any scanning sector mass spectrometer to measure preselected gases at a very high sampling rate. The device generates a rapidly changing staircase output which is applied to the accelerator of the spectrometer and it also generates defocusing pulses that are applied to one of the deflecting plates of the spectrometer which when shorted to ground deflects the ion beam away from the collector. A defocusing pulse occurs each time there is a change in the staircase output.

Distributed modeling of ablation (1996–2011) and climate sensitivity on the glaciers of Taylor Valley, Antarctica

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hoffman, Matthew J.; Fountain, Andrew G.; Liston, Glen E.

Here, the McMurdo Dry Valleys of Antarctica host the coldest and driest ecosystem on Earth, which is acutely sensitive to the availability of water coming from glacial runoff. We modeled the spatial variability in ablation and assessed climate sensitivity of the glacier ablation zones using 16 years of meteorological and surface mass-balance observations collected in Taylor Valley. Sublimation was the primary form of mass loss over much of the ablation zones, except for near the termini where melt, primarily below the surface, dominated. Microclimates in ~10 m scale topographic basins generated melt rates up to ten times higher than overmore » smooth glacier surfaces. In contrast, the vertical terminal cliffs on the glaciers can have higher or lower melt rates than the horizontal surfaces due to differences in incoming solar radiation. The model systematically underpredicted ablation for the final 5 years studied, possibly due to an increase of windblown sediment. Surface mass-balance sensitivity to temperature was ~–0.02 m w.e. K –1, which is among the smallest magnitudes observed globally. We also identified a high sensitivity to ice albedo, with a decrease of 0.02 having similar effects as a 1 K increase in temperature, and a complex sensitivity to wind speed.« less

Distributed modeling of ablation (1996–2011) and climate sensitivity on the glaciers of Taylor Valley, Antarctica

DOE PAGES

Hoffman, Matthew J.; Fountain, Andrew G.; Liston, Glen E.

2016-02-24

Here, the McMurdo Dry Valleys of Antarctica host the coldest and driest ecosystem on Earth, which is acutely sensitive to the availability of water coming from glacial runoff. We modeled the spatial variability in ablation and assessed climate sensitivity of the glacier ablation zones using 16 years of meteorological and surface mass-balance observations collected in Taylor Valley. Sublimation was the primary form of mass loss over much of the ablation zones, except for near the termini where melt, primarily below the surface, dominated. Microclimates in ~10 m scale topographic basins generated melt rates up to ten times higher than overmore » smooth glacier surfaces. In contrast, the vertical terminal cliffs on the glaciers can have higher or lower melt rates than the horizontal surfaces due to differences in incoming solar radiation. The model systematically underpredicted ablation for the final 5 years studied, possibly due to an increase of windblown sediment. Surface mass-balance sensitivity to temperature was ~–0.02 m w.e. K –1, which is among the smallest magnitudes observed globally. We also identified a high sensitivity to ice albedo, with a decrease of 0.02 having similar effects as a 1 K increase in temperature, and a complex sensitivity to wind speed.« less

Percutaneous Radiofrequency Ablation of a Small Renal Mass Complicated by Appendiceal Perforation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Boone, Judith, E-mail: j.boone@amc.uva.nl; Bex, Axel, E-mail: a.bex@nki.nl; Prevoo, Warner, E-mail: w.prevoo@nki.nl

2012-06-15

Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has gained wide acceptance as nephron-sparing therapy for small renal masses in select patients. Generally, it is a safe procedure with minor morbidity and acceptable short-term oncologic outcome. However, as a result of the close proximity of vital structures, such as the bowel, ureter, and large vessels, to the ablative field, complications regarding these structures may occur. This is the first article describing appendiceal perforation as a complication of computed tomography-guided RFA despite hydrodissection. When performing this innovative and promising procedure one should be aware of the possibility of particular minor and even major complications.

In-Situ Geochronology: Extending Larims to Pb-Pb Isocrhons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Whitaker, Tom; Anderson, Scott; Levine, Jonathan

2016-04-01

Introduction: We have previously described development of Laser Ablation Resonance Ionization Mass Spectrometry (LARIMS) for in-situ determination of the radiometric age of rocks using isotope ratios of Rb and Sr [1,2]. LARIMS uses laser resonance excitation of the target elements, which provides elemental selectivity, thus eliminating isobaric interferences with little or no sample preparation and allowing thousands of samples to be measured in significantly shorter periods of time than traditional methods. We have recently begun research that aims to extend the Rb-Sr capability to include Pb-Pb measurements. Preliminary measurements of Standard Reference Material 612 (SRM-612) from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) demonstrate that resonance ionization of Pb can measure samples with as little as 0.12 ppm total Pb. Background: In-situ LARIMS will enable measurements of 1) isotope geochemistry relevant for chronology and igneous evolution, 2) light isotopes relevant for habitability, life, and climate history, as well as 3) elemental abundances relevant to understanding local and regional geology. In particular, the elemental selectivity of LARIMS makes isotopic geochronology measurements possible that heretofore required extensive sample preparation and were thought to be practically impossible for in-situ measurements. For example, we have used Rb-Sr LARIMS to analyze a piece of the Martian meteorite Zagami and the Duluth Gabbro, a lunar analogue. In these measurements, we obtained isochron ages consistent with the published ages within 200 Ma. Pb-Pb geochronology is well-suited for LARIMS analysis. The use of a single element simplifies the laser system and eliminates inter-element fractionation that can be problematic in Rb-Sr analysis or other multi-element LARIMS measurements. In general, there is less interference at masses corresponding to Pb isotopes than at lighter masses. However, there are potential interferences such as Hg and HfO2, which have been known to cause problems in Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICPMS) of Pb isotopes [3]. LARIMS enables a simple check for interfering species by detuning the laser wavelength off the Pb resonance. The resonance ionization signal for the desired species should disappear when the resonance laser is detuned. Any residual signal is due to an interfering species. Three resonance ionization laser schemes were examined for initial LARIMS analysis of Pb: 1) a 2+1 scheme that uses λ1 = λ2 = 450.3 nm (the first transition in this scheme is a simultaneous two-photon excitation), 2) a 1+1+1 scheme using λ1 = 283.3 nm, λ2 = 600.2 nm and λ3 < 1270 nm, and 3) a 1+1 scheme that uses λ1 = λ2 = 283.3 nm. One-photon resonance excitations have cross-sections that are orders of magnitude greater than either two-photon resonance excitations or photoionization processes. Therefore, although schemes 1) and 3) have the advantage of requiring fewer lasers, they also require high-intensity blue or UV wavelengths. This adversely affects the selectivity of the resonance ionization process. Scheme 2) uses low-intensity UV and visible wavelengths and a high-intensity IR wavelength. This is the preferred scheme and was selected for our initial Pb LARIMS measurements. Preliminary Results: A laser system capable of producing the required wavelengths for scheme 2) was assembled. A Nd:YAG laser pumped dye laser produces 566.6 nm light, which is frequency-doubled in a beta barium borate crystal. A second Nd:YAG pumped dye laser produces the 600.2 nm light for the second resonance in scheme 2). The fundamental of one of the Nd:YAG lasers (1064 nm) is used for the final photoionization step. We focus the fifth harmonic (213 nm) of another Nd:YAG laser onto the sample to ablate material off the surface. Electric fields suppress the ions created in the ablation process, preventing these ions from entering the mass spectrometer. The three resonance ionization laser lasers spatially overlap the ablated plume about 1 mm off the surface. These three resonance ionization wavelengths are synchronized in time with each other but delayed with respect to the ablation laser pulse. For Pb, the resonance ionization signal peaks at about 9 μsec delay. The electric field that initially suppressed ablated ions is reversed before the resonance lasers are fired, thus extracting the ions selectively created by resonance ionization into a multi-bounce time-of-flight mass spectrometer (MBTOF-MS). The MBTOF-MS separates the isotopes in time, allowing analysis of isotope ratios. We have used this technique to analyze NIST SRM-612, a glass wafer containing 38.57 ppm Pb along with a number of other constituents. The mass spectrum shows all of the Pb isotopes, with the even isotopes in the expected ratios. However, we have found that the Pb-207 peak height is very sensitive to the exact wavelength of the 600.2 nm light used for the second excitation. The height of this odd isotope can be significantly modified with minute changes in the 600.2 nm wavelength that don't affect the peak heights of the even isotopes. This is due to the well-known odd-even isotope anomaly in resonance ionization. Because of the sensitivity of the Pb-207 peak to the exact wavelength, a standard with known Pb isotope ratios is analyzed frequently to allow calibration of the isotope ratios. In very preliminary LARIMS spectra obtained for SRM-612, the measured Pb-208 signal-to-baseline noise is over 600:1. This corresponds to a minimum detection limit of 0.12 ppm total Pb. We anticipate improving the signal-to-noise with optimization of TOF voltages and ablation laser intensity. Future Work: We are in the process of measuring an isochron for a sample of Duluth Gabbro and anticipate having results available for the conference. We are also exploring the use of fiber lasers for LARIMS analyses of Pb. Fiber lasers are small, lightweight, and extremely robust, making them ideal for space missions. We are presently developing fiber lasers for our Rb-Sr LARIMS work and we have investigated ways to efficiently combine wavelengths from Er-, Yb-, and Tm-doped fibers to generate both the 283.3 nm wavelength and 600.2 nm wavelength needed for Pb LARIMS. Concepts utilizing wavelengths readily generated in these fibers have been developed. References: F.S. Anderson, J. Levine, and T.J. Whitaker, Rapid Comm. in Mass Spect., 2015, 29, 191-204. F.S. Anderson, J. Levine, T.J. Whitaker, Rapid Comm. in Mass Spect., 2015, 29, 1457-1464. R.W. Hinton and J V Long, Earth Planet. Sci. Lett 1979, 45, 309-325.

Mass Spectrometer Containing Multiple Fixed Collectors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moskala, Robert; Celo, Alan; Voss, Guenter; Shaffer, Tom

2008-01-01

A miniature mass spectrometer that incorporates features not typically found in prior mass spectrometers is undergoing development. This mass spectrometer is designed to simultaneously measure the relative concentrations of five gases (H2, He, N2, O2, and Ar) in air, over the relative-concentration range from 10(exp -6) to 1, during a sampling time as short as 1 second. It is intended to serve as a prototype of a product line of easy-to-use, portable, lightweight, highspeed, relatively inexpensive instruments for measuring concentrations of multiple chemical species in such diverse applications as detecting explosive or toxic chemicals in air, monitoring and controlling industrial processes, measuring concentrations of deliberately introduced isotopes in medical and biological investigations, and general environmental monitoring. The heart of this mass spectrometer is an integral combination of a circular cycloidal mass analyzer, multiple fixed ion collectors, and two mass-selective ion sources. By circular cycloidal mass analyzer is meant an analyzer that includes (1) two concentric circular cylindrical electrodes for applying a radial electric field and (2) a magnet arranged to impose a magnetic flux aligned predominantly along the cylindrical axis, so that ions, once accelerated into the annulus between the electrodes, move along circular cycloidal trajectories. As in other mass analyzers, trajectory of each ion is determined by its mass-to-charge ratio, and so ions of different species can be collected simultaneously by collectors (Faraday cups) at different locations intersected by the corresponding trajectories (see figure). Unlike in other mass analyzers, the installation of additional collectors to detect additional species does not necessitate increasing the overall size of the analyzer assembly.

Compact mass spectrometer for plasma discharge ion analysis

DOEpatents

Tuszewski, M.G.

1997-07-22

A mass spectrometer and methods are disclosed for mass spectrometry which are useful in characterizing a plasma. This mass spectrometer for determining type and quantity of ions present in a plasma is simple, compact, and inexpensive. It accomplishes mass analysis in a single step, rather than the usual two-step process comprised of ion extraction followed by mass filtering. Ions are captured by a measuring element placed in a plasma and accelerated by a known applied voltage. Captured ions are bent into near-circular orbits by a magnetic field such that they strike a collector, producing an electric current. Ion orbits vary with applied voltage and proton mass ratio of the ions, so that ion species may be identified. Current flow provides an indication of quantity of ions striking the collector. 7 figs.

Compact mass spectrometer for plasma discharge ion analysis

DOEpatents

Tuszewski, Michel G.

1997-01-01

A mass spectrometer and methods for mass spectrometry which are useful in characterizing a plasma. This mass spectrometer for determining type and quantity of ions present in a plasma is simple, compact, and inexpensive. It accomplishes mass analysis in a single step, rather than the usual two-step process comprised of ion extraction followed by mass filtering. Ions are captured by a measuring element placed in a plasma and accelerated by a known applied voltage. Captured ions are bent into near-circular orbits by a magnetic field such that they strike a collector, producing an electric current. Ion orbits vary with applied voltage and proton mass ratio of the ions, so that ion species may be identified. Current flow provides an indication of quantity of ions striking the collector.

Nonlinear Analysis of Two-phase Circumferential Motion in the Ablation Circumstance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiao-liang, Xu; Hai-ming, Huang; Zi-mao, Zhang

2010-05-01

In aerospace craft reentry and solid rocket propellant nozzle, thermal chemistry ablation is a complex process coupling with convection, heat transfer, mass transfer and chemical reaction. Based on discrete vortex method (DVM), thermal chemical ablation model and particle kinetic model, a computational module dealing with the two-phase circumferential motion in ablation circumstance is designed, the ablation velocity and circumferential field can be thus calculated. The calculated nonlinear time series are analyzed in chaotic identification method: relative chaotic characters such as correlation dimension and the maximum Lyapunov exponent are calculated, fractal dimension of vortex bulbs and particles distributions are also obtained, thus the nonlinear ablation process can be judged as a spatiotemporal chaotic process.

Coupling of the recoil mass spectrometer CAMEL to the γ-ray spectrometer GASP

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Spolaore, P.; Ackermann, D.; Bednarczyk, P.; De Angelis, G.; Napoli, D.; Rossi Alvarez, C.; Bazzacco, D.; Burch, R.; Müller, L.; Segato, G. F.; Scarlassara, F.

1995-02-01

A project has been realized to link the CAMEL recoil mass spectrometer to the GASP γ-spectrometer in order to perform high resolution and efficiency γ-recoil coincidence measurements. To preserve high flexibility and autonomy in the operation of the two complex apparatus a rough factor two of reduction in the overall heavy ion transmission was accepted in designing the optics of the particle transport from the GASP center to the CAMEL focal plane. The coupled configuration has been tested with the fusion reaction 58Ni (E = 212 MeV) + 64Ni, obtaining a mass resolution of {1}/{300} and efficiency between ˜ 11% and ˜ 15% for different evaporation products.

A novel double-focusing time-of-flight mass spectrometer for absolute recoil ion cross sections measurements

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sigaud, L., E-mail: lsigaud@if.uff.br; Jesus, V. L. B. de; Ferreira, Natalia

In this work, the inclusion of an Einzel-like lens inside the time-of-flight drift tube of a standard mass spectrometer coupled to a gas cell—to study ionization of atoms and molecules by electron impact—is described. Both this lens and a conical collimator are responsible for further focalization of the ions and charged molecular fragments inside the spectrometer, allowing a much better resolution at the time-of-flight spectra, leading to a separation of a single mass-to-charge unit up to 100 a.m.u. The procedure to obtain the overall absolute efficiency of the spectrometer and micro-channel plate detector is also discussed.

A novel double-focusing time-of-flight mass spectrometer for absolute recoil ion cross sections measurements.

PubMed

Sigaud, L; de Jesus, V L B; Ferreira, Natalia; Montenegro, E C

2016-08-01

In this work, the inclusion of an Einzel-like lens inside the time-of-flight drift tube of a standard mass spectrometer coupled to a gas cell-to study ionization of atoms and molecules by electron impact-is described. Both this lens and a conical collimator are responsible for further focalization of the ions and charged molecular fragments inside the spectrometer, allowing a much better resolution at the time-of-flight spectra, leading to a separation of a single mass-to-charge unit up to 100 a.m.u. The procedure to obtain the overall absolute efficiency of the spectrometer and micro-channel plate detector is also discussed.

Characterisation of an ion source on the Helix MC Plus noble gas mass spectrometer - pressure dependent mass discrimination

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, X.

2017-12-01

Characterisation of an ion source on the Helix MC Plusnoble gas mass spectrometer - pressure dependent mass discrimination Xiaodong Zhang* dong.zhang@anu.edu.au Masahiko Honda Masahiko.honda@anu.edu.au Research School of Earth Sciences, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia To obtain reliable measurements of noble gas elemental and isotopic abundances in a geological sample it is essential that the mass discrimination (instrument-induced isotope fractionation) of the mass spectrometer remain constant over the working range of noble gas partial pressures. It is known, however, that there are pressure-dependent variations in sensitivity and mass discrimination in conventional noble gas mass spectrometers [1, 2, 3]. In this study, we discuss a practical approach to ensuring that the pressure effect in the Helix MC Plus high resolution, multi-collector noble gas mass spectrometer is minimised. The isotopic composition of atmospheric Ar was measured under a range of operating conditions to test the effects of different parameters on Ar mass discrimination. It was found that the optimised ion source conditions for pressure independent mass discrimination for Ar were different from those for maximised Ar sensitivity. The optimisation can be achieved by mainly adjusting the repeller voltage. It is likely that different ion source settings will be required to minimise pressure-dependent mass discrimination for different noble gases. A recommended procedure for tuning an ion source to reduce pressure dependent mass discrimination will be presented. References: Honda M., et al., Geochim. Cosmochim. Acta, 57, 859 -874, 1993. Burnard P. G., and Farley K. A., Geochemistry Geophysics Geosystems, Volume 1, 2000GC00038, 2000. Mabry J., et al., Journal of Analytical Atomic Spectrometry, 27, 1012 - 1017, 2012.

Identification of isomers and control of ionization and dissociation processes using dual-mass-spectrometer scheme and genetic algorithm optimization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Zhou; Tong, Qiu-Nan; Zhang, Cong-Cong; Hu, Zhan

2015-04-01

Identification of acetone and its two isomers, and the control of their ionization and dissociation processes are performed using a dual-mass-spectrometer scheme. The scheme employs two sets of time of flight mass spectrometers to simultaneously acquire the mass spectra of two different molecules under the irradiation of identically shaped femtosecond laser pulses. The optimal laser pulses are found using closed-loop learning method based on a genetic algorithm. Compared with the mass spectra of the two isomers that are obtained with the transform limited pulse, those obtained under the irradiation of the optimal laser pulse show large differences and the various reaction pathways of the two molecules are selectively controlled. The experimental results demonstrate that the scheme is quite effective and useful in studies of two molecules having common mass peaks, which makes a traditional single mass spectrometer unfeasible. Project supported by the National Basic Research Program of China (Grant No. 2013CB922200) and the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 11374124).

Proof of Concept Coded Aperture Miniature Mass Spectrometer Using a Cycloidal Sector Mass Analyzer, a Carbon Nanotube (CNT) Field Emission Electron Ionization Source, and an Array Detector.

PubMed

Amsden, Jason J; Herr, Philip J; Landry, David M W; Kim, William; Vyas, Raul; Parker, Charles B; Kirley, Matthew P; Keil, Adam D; Gilchrist, Kristin H; Radauscher, Erich J; Hall, Stephen D; Carlson, James B; Baldasaro, Nicholas; Stokes, David; Di Dona, Shane T; Russell, Zachary E; Grego, Sonia; Edwards, Steven J; Sperline, Roger P; Denton, M Bonner; Stoner, Brian R; Gehm, Michael E; Glass, Jeffrey T

2018-02-01

Despite many potential applications, miniature mass spectrometers have had limited adoption in the field due to the tradeoff between throughput and resolution that limits their performance relative to laboratory instruments. Recently, a solution to this tradeoff has been demonstrated by using spatially coded apertures in magnetic sector mass spectrometers, enabling throughput and signal-to-background improvements of greater than an order of magnitude with no loss of resolution. This paper describes a proof of concept demonstration of a cycloidal coded aperture miniature mass spectrometer (C-CAMMS) demonstrating use of spatially coded apertures in a cycloidal sector mass analyzer for the first time. C-CAMMS also incorporates a miniature carbon nanotube (CNT) field emission electron ionization source and a capacitive transimpedance amplifier (CTIA) ion array detector. Results confirm the cycloidal mass analyzer's compatibility with aperture coding. A >10× increase in throughput was achieved without loss of resolution compared with a single slit instrument. Several areas where additional improvement can be realized are identified. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.

Proof of Concept Coded Aperture Miniature Mass Spectrometer Using a Cycloidal Sector Mass Analyzer, a Carbon Nanotube (CNT) Field Emission Electron Ionization Source, and an Array Detector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amsden, Jason J.; Herr, Philip J.; Landry, David M. W.; Kim, William; Vyas, Raul; Parker, Charles B.; Kirley, Matthew P.; Keil, Adam D.; Gilchrist, Kristin H.; Radauscher, Erich J.; Hall, Stephen D.; Carlson, James B.; Baldasaro, Nicholas; Stokes, David; Di Dona, Shane T.; Russell, Zachary E.; Grego, Sonia; Edwards, Steven J.; Sperline, Roger P.; Denton, M. Bonner; Stoner, Brian R.; Gehm, Michael E.; Glass, Jeffrey T.

2018-02-01

Despite many potential applications, miniature mass spectrometers have had limited adoption in the field due to the tradeoff between throughput and resolution that limits their performance relative to laboratory instruments. Recently, a solution to this tradeoff has been demonstrated by using spatially coded apertures in magnetic sector mass spectrometers, enabling throughput and signal-to-background improvements of greater than an order of magnitude with no loss of resolution. This paper describes a proof of concept demonstration of a cycloidal coded aperture miniature mass spectrometer (C-CAMMS) demonstrating use of spatially coded apertures in a cycloidal sector mass analyzer for the first time. C-CAMMS also incorporates a miniature carbon nanotube (CNT) field emission electron ionization source and a capacitive transimpedance amplifier (CTIA) ion array detector. Results confirm the cycloidal mass analyzer's compatibility with aperture coding. A >10× increase in throughput was achieved without loss of resolution compared with a single slit instrument. Several areas where additional improvement can be realized are identified.

Toward single-cell analysis by plume collimation in laser ablation electrospray ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Stolee, Jessica A; Vertes, Akos

2013-04-02

Ambient ionization methods for mass spectrometry have enabled the in situ and in vivo analysis of biological tissues and cells. When an etched optical fiber is used to deliver laser energy to a sample in laser ablation electrospray ionization (LAESI) mass spectrometry, the analysis of large single cells becomes possible. However, because in this arrangement the ablation plume expands in three dimensions, only a small portion of it is ionized by the electrospray. Here we show that sample ablation within a capillary helps to confine the radial expansion of the plume. Plume collimation, due to the altered expansion dynamics, leads to greater interaction with the electrospray plume resulting in increased ionization efficiency, reduced limit of detection (by a factor of ~13, reaching 600 amol for verapamil), and extended dynamic range (6 orders of magnitude) compared to conventional LAESI. This enhanced sensitivity enables the analysis of a range of metabolites from small cell populations and single cells in the ambient environment. This technique has the potential to be integrated with flow cytometry for high-throughput metabolite analysis of sorted cells.

IR-MALDESI MASS SPECTROMETRY IMAGING OF BIOLOGICAL TISSUE SECTIONS USING ICE AS A MATRIX

PubMed Central

Robichaud, Guillaume; Barry, Jeremy A.; Muddiman, David C.

2014-01-01

Infrared Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Electrospray Ionization (IR-MALDESI) Mass Spectrometry imaging of biological tissue sections using a layer of deposited ice as an energy absorbing matrix was investigated. Dynamics of plume ablation were first explored using a nanosecond exposure shadowgraphy system designed to simultaneously collect pictures of the plume with a camera and collect the FT-ICR mass spectrum corresponding to that same ablation event. Ablation of fresh tissue analyzed with and without using ice as a matrix were both compared using this technique. Effect of spot-to-spot distance, number of laser shots per pixel and tissue condition (matrix) on ion abundance was also investigated for 50 µm thick tissue sections. Finally, the statistical method called design of experiments was used to compare source parameters and determine the optimal conditions for IR-MALDESI of tissue sections using deposited ice as a matrix. With a better understanding of the fundamentals of ablation dynamics and a systematic approach to explore the experimental space, it was possible to improve ion abundance by nearly one order of magnitude. PMID:24385399

Sample introducing apparatus and sample modules for mass spectrometer

DOEpatents

Thompson, Cyril V.; Wise, Marcus B.

1993-01-01

An apparatus for introducing gaseous samples from a wide range of environmental matrices into a mass spectrometer for analysis of the samples is described. Several sample preparing modules including a real-time air monitoring module, a soil/liquid purge module, and a thermal desorption module are individually and rapidly attachable to the sample introducing apparatus for supplying gaseous samples to the mass spectrometer. The sample-introducing apparatus uses a capillary column for conveying the gaseous samples into the mass spectrometer and is provided with an open/split interface in communication with the capillary and a sample archiving port through which at least about 90 percent of the gaseous sample in a mixture with an inert gas that was introduced into the sample introducing apparatus is separated from a minor portion of the mixture entering the capillary discharged from the sample introducing apparatus.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Thompson, Cyril V.; Whitten, William B.

This report describes Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s (ORNL) FY15 progress in support of National Nuclear Security Administration’s (NNSA) Portable Mass Spectrometer project. A retrofit PolarisQ ion trap mass spectrometer (RPMS) has been assembled from components of two PolarisQ ion trap mass spectrometers used in previous isotope ratio programs. The retrofit mass spectrometer includes a custom Hastelloy vacuum chamber which is about ¼ the size of the standard aluminum vacuum chamber and reduces the instrument weight from the original by nine pounds. In addition, the new vacuum chamber can be independently heated to reduce impurities such as water, which reacts withmore » UF 6 to produce HF in the vacuum chamber. The analyzer and all components requiring service are mounted on the chamber lid, facilitating quick and easy replacement of consumable components such as the filament and electron multiplier.« less

LVGEMS Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry on Satellites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Herrero, Federico

2013-01-01

NASA fs investigations of the upper atmosphere and ionosphere require measurements of composition of the neutral air and ions. NASA is able to undertake these observations, but the instruments currently in use have their limitations. NASA has extended the scope of its research in the atmosphere and now requires more measurements covering more of the atmosphere. Out of this need, NASA developed multipoint measurements using miniaturized satellites, also called nanosatellites (e.g., CubeSats), that require a new generation of spectrometers that can fit into a 4 4 in. (.10 10 cm) cross-section in the upgraded satellites. Overall, the new mass spectrometer required for the new depth of atmospheric research must fulfill a new level of low-voltage/low-power requirements, smaller size, and less risk of magnetic contamination. The Low-Voltage Gated Electrostatic Mass Spectrometer (LVGEMS) was developed to fulfill these requirements. The LVGEMS offers a new spectrometer that eliminates magnetic field issues associated with magnetic sector mass spectrometers, reduces power, and is about 1/10 the size of previous instruments. LVGEMS employs the time of flight (TOF) technique in the GEMS mass spectrometer previously developed. However, like any TOF mass spectrometer, GEMS requires a rectangular waveform of large voltage amplitude, exceeding 100 V -- that means that the voltage applied to one of the GEMS electrodes has to change from 0 to 100 V in a time of only a few nanoseconds. Such electronic speed requires more power than can be provided in a CubeSat. In the LVGEMS, the amplitude of the rectangular waveform is reduced to about 1 V, compatible with digital electronics supplies and requiring little power.

Particle analysis using laser ablation mass spectroscopy

DOEpatents

Parker, Eric P.; Rosenthal, Stephen E.; Trahan, Michael W.; Wagner, John S.

2003-09-09

The present invention provides a method of quickly identifying bioaerosols by class, even if the subject bioaerosol has not been previously encountered. The method begins by collecting laser ablation mass spectra from known particles. The spectra are correlated with the known particles, including the species of particle and the classification (e.g., bacteria). The spectra can then be used to train a neural network, for example using genetic algorithm-based training, to recognize each spectra and to recognize characteristics of the classifications. The spectra can also be used in a multivariate patch algorithm. Laser ablation mass specta from unknown particles can be presented as inputs to the trained neural net for identification as to classification. The description below first describes suitable intelligent algorithms and multivariate patch algorithms, then presents an example of the present invention including results.

Probe Heating Method for the Analysis of Solid Samples Using a Portable Mass Spectrometer

PubMed Central

Kumano, Shun; Sugiyama, Masuyuki; Yamada, Masuyoshi; Nishimura, Kazushige; Hasegawa, Hideki; Morokuma, Hidetoshi; Inoue, Hiroyuki; Hashimoto, Yuichiro

2015-01-01

We previously reported on the development of a portable mass spectrometer for the onsite screening of illicit drugs, but our previous sampling system could only be used for liquid samples. In this study, we report on an attempt to develop a probe heating method that also permits solid samples to be analyzed using a portable mass spectrometer. An aluminum rod is used as the sampling probe. The powdered sample is affixed to the sampling probe or a droplet of sample solution is placed on the tip of the probe and dried. The probe is then placed on a heater to vaporize the sample. The vapor is then introduced into the portable mass spectrometer and analyzed. With the heater temperature set to 130°C, the developed system detected 1 ng of methamphetamine, 1 ng of amphetamine, 3 ng of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, 1 ng of 3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine, and 0.3 ng of cocaine. Even from mixtures consisting of clove powder and methamphetamine powder, methamphetamine ions were detected by tandem mass spectrometry. The developed probe heating method provides a simple method for the analysis of solid samples. A portable mass spectrometer incorporating this method would thus be useful for the onsite screening of illicit drugs. PMID:26819909

AUTOMATIC MASS SPECTROMETER

DOEpatents

Hanson, M.L.; Tabor, C.D. Jr.

1961-12-01

A mass spectrometer for analyzing the components of a gas is designed which is capable of continuous automatic operation such as analysis of samples of process gas from a continuous production system where the gas content may be changing. (AEC)

Interface for liquid chromatograph-mass spectrometer

DOEpatents

Andresen, B.D.; Fought, E.R.

1989-09-19

A moving belt interface is described for real-time, high-performance liquid chromatograph (HPLC)/mass spectrometer (MS) analysis which strips away the HPLC solvent as it emerges from the end of the HPLC column and leaves a residue suitable for mass-spectral analysis. The interface includes a portable, stand-alone apparatus having a plural stage vacuum station, a continuous ribbon or belt, a drive train magnetically coupled to an external drive motor, a calibrated HPLC delivery system, a heated probe tip and means located adjacent the probe tip for direct ionization of the residue on the belt. The interface is also capable of being readily adapted to fit any mass spectrometer. 8 figs.

Interface for liquid chromatograph-mass spectrometer

DOEpatents

Andresen, Brian D.; Fought, Eric R.

1989-01-01

A moving belt interface for real-time, high-performance liquid chromatograph (HPLC)/mass spectrometer (MS) analysis which strips away the HPLC solvent as it emerges from the end of the HPLC column and leaves a residue suitable for mass-spectral analysis. The interface includes a portable, stand-alone apparatus having a plural stage vacuum station, a continuous ribbon or belt, a drive train magnetically coupled to an external drive motor, a calibrated HPLC delivery system, a heated probe tip and means located adjacent the probe tip for direct ionization of the residue on the belt. The interface is also capable of being readily adapted to fit any mass spectrometer.

Digitally synthesized high purity, high-voltage radio frequency drive electronics for mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Schaefer, R T; MacAskill, J A; Mojarradi, M; Chutjian, A; Darrach, M R; Madzunkov, S M; Shortt, B J

2008-09-01

Reported herein is development of a quadrupole mass spectrometer controller (MSC) with integrated radio frequency (rf) power supply and mass spectrometer drive electronics. Advances have been made in terms of the physical size and power consumption of the MSC, while simultaneously making improvements in frequency stability, total harmonic distortion, and spectral purity. The rf power supply portion of the MSC is based on a series-resonant LC tank, where the capacitive load is the mass spectrometer itself, and the inductor is a solenoid or toroid, with various core materials. The MSC drive electronics is based on a field programmable gate array (FPGA), with serial peripheral interface for analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converter support, and RS232/RS422 communications interfaces. The MSC offers spectral quality comparable to, or exceeding, that of conventional rf power supplies used in commercially available mass spectrometers; and as well an inherent flexibility, via the FPGA implementation, for a variety of tasks that includes proportional-integral derivative closed-loop feedback and control of rf, rf amplitude, and mass spectrometer sensitivity. Also provided are dc offsets and resonant dipole excitation for mass selective accumulation in applications involving quadrupole ion traps; rf phase locking and phase shifting for external loading of a quadrupole ion trap; and multichannel scaling of acquired mass spectra. The functionality of the MSC is task specific, and is easily modified by simply loading FPGA registers or reprogramming FPGA firmware.

Study and optimization of key parameters of a laser ablation ion mobility spectrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ni, Kai; Li, Jianan; Tang, Binchao; Shi, Yuan; Yu, Quan; Qian, Xiang; Wang, Xiaohao

2016-11-01

Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS), having an advantage in real-time and on-line detection, is an atmospheric pressure detecting technique. LA-IMS (Laser Ablation Ion Mobility Spectrometry) uses Nd-YAG laser as ionization source, whose energy is high enough to ionize metal. In this work, we tested the signal in different electric field intensity by a home-made ion mobility spectrometer, using silicon wafers the sample. The transportation of metal ions was match with the formula: Td = d/K • 1/E, when the electric field intensity is greater than 350v/cm. The relationship between signal intensity and collection angle (the angle between drift tube and the surface of the sample) was studied. With the increasing of the collection angle, signal intensity had a significant increase; while the variation of incident angle of the laser had no significant influence. The signal intensity had a 140% increase when the collection angle varied from 0 to 45 degree, while the angle between the drift tube and incident laser beam keeping the same as 90 degree. The position of ion gate in LA-IMS(Laser Ablation Ion Mobility Spectrometry) is different from the traditional ones for the kinetic energy of the ions is too big, if the distance between ion gate and sampling points less than 2.5cm the ion gate will not work, the ions could go through ion gate when it closed. The SNR had been improved by define the signal when the ion gate is closed as background signal, the signal noise including shock wave and electrical field perturbation produced during the interaction between laser beam and samples is eliminated when the signal that the ion gate opened minus the background signal.

A retarding ion mass spectrometer for the Dynamics Explorer-1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wright, W.

1985-01-01

The Retarding Ion Mass Spectrometer (RIMS) for Dynamics Explorer-1 is an instrument designed to measure the details of the thermal plasma distribution. It combines the ion temperature determining capability of the retarding potential analyzer with the compositional capabilities of the mass spectrometer and adds multiple sensor heads to sample all directions relative to the spacecraft ram direction. This manual provides a functional description of the RIMS, the instrument calibration, and a description of the commands which can be stored in the instrument logic to control its operation.

Prototype of the gas chromatograph - mass spectrometer to investigate volatile species in the lunar soil for the Luna-Glob and Luna-Resurs missions.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hofer, L.; Lasi, D.; Tulej, M.; Wurz, P.; Cabane, M.; Cosica, D.; Gerasimov, M.; Rodinov, D.

2013-09-01

In preparation for the Russian Luna-Glob and Luna-Resurs missions we combined our compact time-offlight mass spectrometer (TOF-MS) with a chemical pre-separation of the species by gas chromatography (GC). Combined measurements with both instruments were successfully performed with the laboratory prototype of the mass spectrometer and a flight-like gas chromatograph. Due to its capability to record mass spectra over the full mass range at once with high sensitivity and a dynamic range of up to 106 within 1s, the TOF-MS system is a valuable extension of the GC analysis. The combined GC-MS complex is able to detect concentrations of volatile species in the sample of about 2·10^-9 by mass.

Specific Impulse Definition for Ablative Laser Propulsion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Herren, Kenneth A.; Gregory, Don A.

2004-01-01

The term "specific impulse" is so ingrained in the field of rocket propulsion that it is unlikely that any fundamental argument would be taken seriously for its removal. It is not an ideal measure but it does give an indication of the amount of mass flow (mass loss/time), as in fuel rate, required to produce a measured thrust over some time period This investigation explores the implications of being able to accurately measure the ablation rate and how the language used to describe the specific impulse results may have to change slightly, and recasts the specific impulse as something that is not a time average. It is not currently possible to measure the ablation rate accurately in real time so it is generally just assumed that a constant amount of material will be removed for each laser pulse delivered The specific impulse dependence on the ablation rate is determined here as a correction to the classical textbook definition.

Digital imaging mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Bamberger, Casimir; Renz, Uwe; Bamberger, Andreas

2011-06-01

Methods to visualize the two-dimensional (2D) distribution of molecules by mass spectrometric imaging evolve rapidly and yield novel applications in biology, medicine, and material surface sciences. Most mass spectrometric imagers acquire high mass resolution spectra spot-by-spot and thereby scan the object's surface. Thus, imaging is slow and image reconstruction remains cumbersome. Here we describe an imaging mass spectrometer that exploits the true imaging capabilities by ion optical means for the time of flight mass separation. The mass spectrometer is equipped with the ASIC Timepix chip as an array detector to acquire the position, mass, and intensity of ions that are imaged by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) directly from the target sample onto the detector. This imaging mass spectrometer has a spatial resolving power at the specimen of (84 ± 35) μm with a mass resolution of 45 and locates atoms or organic compounds on a surface area up to ~2 cm(2). Extended laser spots of ~5 mm(2) on structured specimens allows parallel imaging of selected masses. The digital imaging mass spectrometer proves high hit-multiplicity, straightforward image reconstruction, and potential for high-speed readout at 4 kHz or more. This device demonstrates a simple way of true image acquisition like a digital photographic camera. The technology may enable a fast analysis of biomolecular samples in near future.

Impact of monsoonal rainfall on specific mass balance in ablation zone of Chhota Shigri Glacier in 2008, Himachal Pradesh, India

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sharma, P.; Ramanathan, A.; Linda, A.; Wagnon, P.; Arnod, Y.; Jose, P. G.; Chevallier, P.

2009-04-01

The Mass Balance of the Chhota Shigri glacier (32.2°N, 77.5°E; 15.7 km2, 4050 to 6263m a.m.s.l., 9 km long) located in Lahaul and Spiti valley, Himachal Pradesh, India has been monitored from 2002 to 2008 using glaciological method. In 2008, an additional field survey during 3- 10th August was undertaken to understand the impact of monsoonal rainfall on specific mass balance at various points on the ablation zone of this glacier that is alternatively influenced by the Indian monsoon and the mid-latitude westerlies. Specific Annual Mass Balance is negative (0.93 mweq), Equilibrium Line Altitude (ELA) is 5120m and Accumulation Area Ratio (AAR) is 38% in the 2007-08 hydrological year. In 2008 data obtained from nearest Weather station at Keylong show that the monsoon hit the Spiti valley in the middle of June (15 days earlier than normal date ) .The results reveal that 70% of total specific mass balance occurred by the first week of August indicating that most of the melting occurred in the first half of ablation season, dominated by monsoonal rainfall. The rainfall may accelerate ablation rate by supplying ( heat ) energy even it is very low and exposing bare dirty ice thereby decreasing albedo. In part A of the glacier, the mean vertical gradient of ablation up to August 08 is 0.67 m w.e. 100 m-1 between 4350 and 4850 m a.s.l., (area free of debris) and for part B, it is 0.41 m w.e. 100 m-1 between 4600m a.s.l. and 5000m a.s.l. From August 08 up to 1st week of October, mean vertical gradient of the ablation for part A is 0.54m w.e. 100 m-1 and it is 0.61 m w.e. 100 m-1 in part B for the same altitude ranges. Below 4350m a.s.l. the whole glacier is covered by debris and the melting rate is significantly reduced. Overall, ablation rate is influenced by rainfall, incoming solar radiation and debris cover.

Temporal and spatial distribution of metallic species in the upper atmosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Correira, John Thomas

2009-06-01

Every day the Earth is bombarded by approximately 100 tons of meteoric material. Much of this material is completely ablated on atmospheric entry, resulting in a layer of atomic metals in the upper atmosphere between 70 km - 150 km. These neutral atoms are ionized by solar radiation and charge exchange. Metal ions have a long lifetime against recombination loss, allowing them to be redistributed globally by electromagnetic forces, especially when lifted to altitudes >150 km. UV radiances from the Global Ozone Monitoring Experiment (GOME) spectrometer are used to determine long-term dayside variations of the total vertical column density below 795 km of the meteoric metal species Mg and Mg + in the upper atmosphere. A retrieval algorithm developed to determine magnesium column densities was applied to all available data from the years 1996-2001. Long term results show middle latitude dayside Mg + peaks in vertical content during the summer, while neutral Mg demonstrates a much more subtle maximum in summer. Atmospheric metal concentrations do not correlate strongly solar activity. An analysis of spatial variations shows geospatial distributions are patchy, with local regions of increased column density. To study short term variations and the role of meteor showers a time dependent mass flux rate is calculated using published estimates of meteor stream mass densities and activity profiles. An average daily mass flux rate is also calculated and used as a baseline against which shower mass flux rates are compared. These theoretical mass flux rates are then compared with GOME derived metal column densities. There appears to be little correlation between modeled meteor shower mass flux rates and changes in the observed neutral magnesium and Mg + metal column densities.

Improved ion optics for introduction of ions into a 9.4-T Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer

DOE PAGES

Chen, Yu; Leach, Franklin E.; Kaiser, Nathan K.; ...

2015-01-19

Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (FT-ICR) mass spectrometry provides unparalleled mass accuracy and resolving power.[1],[2] With electrospray ionization (ESI), ions are typically transferred into the mass spectrometer through a skimmer, which serves as a conductance-limiting orifice. However, the skimmer allows only a small fraction of incoming ions to enter the mass spectrometer. An ion funnel, originally developed by Smith and coworkers at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL)[3-5] provides much more efficient ion focusing and transfer. The large entrance aperture of the ion funnel allows almost all ions emanating from a heated capillary to be efficiently captured and transferred, resulting inmore » nearly lossless transmission.« less

Design and development of a fast ion mass spectrometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burch, J. L.

1983-01-01

Two Fast Ion Mass Spectrometers (FIMS A and FIMS B) were developed. The design, development, construction, calibration, integration, and flight of these instruments, along with early results from the data analysis efforts are summarized. A medium energy ion mass spectrometer that covers mass velocity space with significantly higher time resolution, improved mass resolution, (particularly for heavier ions), and wider energy range than existing instruments had achieved was completed. The initial design consisted of a dual channel cylindrical electrostatic analyzer followed by a dual channel cylindrical velocity filter. The gain versus count rate characteristics of the high current channel electron multipliers (CEM's), which were chosen for ion detection, revealed a systematic behavior that can be used as a criterion for selection of CEM's for long counting lifetimes.

Effect of Vaporizer Temperature on Ambient Non-Refractory Submicron Aerosol Composition and Mass Spectra Measured by the Aerosol Mass Spectrometer

EPA Science Inventory

Aerodyne Aerosol Mass Spectrometers (AMS) are routinely operated with a constant vaporizer temperature (Tvap) of 600^oC in order to facilitate quantitative detection of non-refractory submicron (NR-PM1) species. By analogy with other thermal desorption instrument...

USE OF GC-MS/COMBUSTION/IRMS TO IDENTIFY AND DETERMINE THE STABLE CARBON ISOTOPIC RATIO OF INDIVIDUAL LIPIDS

EPA Science Inventory

A system that couples a gas chromatograph (GC) via a split to a quadrapole mass spectrometer (MS) and, through a combustion interface, to an isotope ratio mass spectrometer (IRMS) allows the simultaneous detection of electron impact mass spectra and stable carbon isotope ratio an...

Sample introducing apparatus and sample modules for mass spectrometer

DOEpatents

Thompson, C.V.; Wise, M.B.

1993-12-21

An apparatus for introducing gaseous samples from a wide range of environmental matrices into a mass spectrometer for analysis of the samples is described. Several sample preparing modules including a real-time air monitoring module, a soil/liquid purge module, and a thermal desorption module are individually and rapidly attachable to the sample introducing apparatus for supplying gaseous samples to the mass spectrometer. The sample-introducing apparatus uses a capillary column for conveying the gaseous samples into the mass spectrometer and is provided with an open/split interface in communication with the capillary and a sample archiving port through which at least about 90 percent of the gaseous sample in a mixture with an inert gas that was introduced into the sample introducing apparatus is separated from a minor portion of the mixture entering the capillary discharged from the sample introducing apparatus. 5 figures.

New methods to detect particle velocity and mass flux in arc-heated ablation/erosion facilities

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brayton, D. B.; Bomar, B. W.; Seibel, B. L.; Elrod, P. D.

1980-01-01

Arc-heated flow facilities with injected particles are used to simulate the erosive and ablative/erosive environments encountered by spacecraft re-entry through fog, clouds, thermo-nuclear explosions, etc. Two newly developed particle diagnostic techniques used to calibrate these facilities are discussed. One technique measures particle velocity and is based on the detection of thermal radiation and/or chemiluminescence from the hot seed particles in a model ablation/erosion facility. The second technique measures a local particle rate, which is proportional to local particle mass flux, in a dust erosion facility by photodetecting and counting the interruptions of a focused laser beam by individual particles.

Hot-spot mix in ignition-scale inertial confinement fusion targets.

PubMed

Regan, S P; Epstein, R; Hammel, B A; Suter, L J; Scott, H A; Barrios, M A; Bradley, D K; Callahan, D A; Cerjan, C; Collins, G W; Dixit, S N; Döppner, T; Edwards, M J; Farley, D R; Fournier, K B; Glenn, S; Glenzer, S H; Golovkin, I E; Haan, S W; Hamza, A; Hicks, D G; Izumi, N; Jones, O S; Kilkenny, J D; Kline, J L; Kyrala, G A; Landen, O L; Ma, T; MacFarlane, J J; MacKinnon, A J; Mancini, R C; McCrory, R L; Meezan, N B; Meyerhofer, D D; Nikroo, A; Park, H-S; Ralph, J; Remington, B A; Sangster, T C; Smalyuk, V A; Springer, P T; Town, R P J

2013-07-26

Mixing of plastic ablator material, doped with Cu and Ge dopants, deep into the hot spot of ignition-scale inertial confinement fusion implosions by hydrodynamic instabilities is diagnosed with x-ray spectroscopy on the National Ignition Facility. The amount of hot-spot mix mass is determined from the absolute brightness of the emergent Cu and Ge K-shell emission. The Cu and Ge dopants placed at different radial locations in the plastic ablator show the ablation-front hydrodynamic instability is primarily responsible for hot-spot mix. Low neutron yields and hot-spot mix mass between 34(-13,+50)  ng and 4000(-2970,+17 160)  ng are observed.

Capsule Ablator Inflight Performance Measurements Via Streaked Radiography Of ICF Implosions On The NIF*

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dewald, E. L.; Tommasini, R.; Mackinnon, A.; MacPhee, A.; Meezan, N.; Olson, R.; Hicks, D.; LePape, S.; Izumi, N.; Fournier, K.; Barrios, M. A.; Ross, S.; Pak, A.; Döppner, T.; Kalantar, D.; Opachich, K.; Rygg, R.; Bradley, D.; Bell, P.; Hamza, A.; Dzenitis, B.; Landen, O. L.; MacGowan, B.; LaFortune, K.; Widmayer, C.; Van Wonterghem, B.; Kilkenny, J.; Edwards, M. J.; Atherton, J.; Moses, E. I.

2016-03-01

Streaked 1-dimensional (slit imaging) radiography of 1.1 mm radius capsules in ignition hohlraums was recently introduced on the National Ignition Facility (NIF) and gives an inflight continuous record of capsule ablator implosion velocities, shell thickness and remaining mass in the last 3-5 ns before peak implosion time. The high quality data delivers good accuracy in implosion metrics that meets our requirements for ignition and agrees with recently introduced 2-dimensional pinhole radiography. Calculations match measured trajectory across various capsule designs and laser drives when the peak laser power is reduced by 20%. Furthermore, calculations matching measured trajectories give also good agreement in ablator shell thickness and remaining mass.

Hot-spot mix in ignition-scale inertial confinement fusion targets

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Regan, S. P.; Epstein, R.; Hammel, B. A.

Mixing of plastic ablator material, doped with Cu and Ge dopants, deep into the hot spot of ignition-scale inertial confinement fusion implosions by hydrodynamic instabilities is diagnosed with x-ray spectroscopy on the National Ignition Facility. The amount of hot-spot mix mass is determined from the absolute brightness of the emergent Cu and Ge K-shell emission. The Cu and Ge dopants placed at different radial locations in the plastic ablator show the ablation-front hydrodynamic instability is primarily responsible for hot-spot mix. As a result, low neutron yields and hot-spot mix mass between 34(–13,+50) ng and 4000(–2970,+17 160) ng are observed.

Hot-spot mix in ignition-scale inertial confinement fusion targets

DOE PAGES

Regan, S. P.; Epstein, R.; Hammel, B. A.; ...

2013-07-22

Mixing of plastic ablator material, doped with Cu and Ge dopants, deep into the hot spot of ignition-scale inertial confinement fusion implosions by hydrodynamic instabilities is diagnosed with x-ray spectroscopy on the National Ignition Facility. The amount of hot-spot mix mass is determined from the absolute brightness of the emergent Cu and Ge K-shell emission. The Cu and Ge dopants placed at different radial locations in the plastic ablator show the ablation-front hydrodynamic instability is primarily responsible for hot-spot mix. As a result, low neutron yields and hot-spot mix mass between 34(–13,+50) ng and 4000(–2970,+17 160) ng are observed.

On-line Monitoring of Continuous Flow Chemical Synthesis Using a Portable, Small Footprint Mass Spectrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bristow, Tony W. T.; Ray, Andrew D.; O'Kearney-McMullan, Anne; Lim, Louise; McCullough, Bryan; Zammataro, Alessio

2014-10-01

For on-line monitoring of chemical reactions (batch or continuous flow), mass spectrometry (MS) can provide data to (1) determine the fate of starting materials and reagents, (2) confirm the presence of the desired product, (3) identify intermediates and impurities, (4) determine steady state conditions and point of completion, and (5) speed up process optimization. Recent developments in small footprint atmospheric pressure ionization portable mass spectrometers further enable this coupling, as the mass spectrometer can be easily positioned with the reaction system to be studied. A major issue for this combination is the transfer of a sample that is representative of the reaction and also compatible with the mass spectrometer. This is particularly challenging as high concentrations of reagents and products can be encountered in organic synthesis. The application of a portable mass spectrometer for on-line characterization of flow chemical synthesis has been evaluated by coupling a Microsaic 4000 MiD to the Future Chemistry Flow Start EVO chemistry system. Specifically, the Hofmann rearrangement has been studied using the on-line mass spectrometry approach. Sample transfer from the flow reactor is achieved using a mass rate attenuator (MRA) and a sampling make-up flow from a high pressure pump. This enables the appropriate sample dilution, transfer, and preparation for electrospray ionization. The capability of this approach to provide process understanding is described using an industrial pharmaceutical process that is currently under development. The effect of a number of key experimental parameters, such as the composition of the sampling make-up flow and the dilution factor on the mass spectrometry data, is also discussed.

21 Tesla Fourier Transform Ion Cyclotron Resonance Mass Spectrometer Greatly Expands Mass Spectrometry Toolbox

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shaw, Jared B.; Lin, Tzu-Yung; Leach, Franklin E.; Tolmachev, Aleksey V.; Tolić, Nikola; Robinson, Errol W.; Koppenaal, David W.; Paša-Tolić, Ljiljana

2016-12-01

We provide the initial performance evaluation of a 21 Tesla Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer operating at the Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. The spectrometer constructed for the 21T system employs a commercial dual linear ion trap mass spectrometer coupled to a FTICR spectrometer designed and built in-house. Performance gains from moving to higher magnetic field strength are exemplified by the measurement of peptide isotopic fine structure, complex natural organic matter mixtures, and large proteins. Accurate determination of isotopic fine structure was demonstrated for doubly charged Substance P with minimal spectral averaging, and 8158 molecular formulas assigned to Suwannee River Fulvic Acid standard with root-mean-square (RMS) error of 10 ppb. We also demonstrated superior performance for intact proteins; namely, broadband isotopic resolution of the entire charge state distribution of apo-transferrin (78 kDa) and facile isotopic resolution of monoclonal antibody under a variety of acquisition parameters (e.g., 6 s time-domains with absorption mode processing yielded resolution of approximately 1 M at m/z = 2700).

21 Tesla Fourier Transform Ion Cyclotron Resonance Mass Spectrometer Greatly Expands Mass Spectrometry Toolbox

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Shaw, Jared B.; Lin, Tzu-Yung; Leach, Franklin E.

We provide the initial performance evaluation of a 21 Tesla Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer operating at the Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. The spectrometer constructed for the 21T system employs a commercial dual linear ion trap mass spectrometer coupled to a FTICR spectrometer designed and built in-house. Performance gains from moving to higher magnetic field strength are exemplified by the measurement of peptide isotopic fine structure, complex natural organic matter mixtures, and large proteins. Accurate determination of isotopic fine structure was demonstrated for doubly charged substance P with minimal spectral averaging, and 8,158more » molecular formulas assigned to Suwannee River Fulvic Acid standard with RMS error of 10 ppb. We also demonstrated superior performance for intact proteins; namely, broadband isotopic resolution of the entire charge state distribution of apotransferrin (78 kDa) and facile isotopic resolution of monoclonal antibody under a variety of acquisition parameters (e.g. 6 s time-domains with absorption mode processing yielded resolution of approximately 1M at m/z =2,700).« less

Laser-Ablation (U-Th)/He Geochronology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hodges, K.; Boyce, J.

2003-12-01

Over the past decade, ultraviolet laser microprobes have revolutionized the field of 40Ar/39Ar geochronology. They provide unprecedented information about Ar isotopic zoning in natural crystals, permit high-resolution characterization of Ar diffusion profiles produced during laboratory experiments, and enable targeted dating of multiple generations of minerals in thin section. We have modified the analytical protocols used for 40Ar/39Ar laser microanalysis for use in (U-Th)/He geochronologic studies. Part of the success of the 40Ar/39Ar laser microprobe stems from fact that measurements of Ar isotopic ratios alone are sufficient for the calculation of a date. In contrast, the (U-Th)/He method requires separate analysis of U+Th and 4He. Our method employs two separate laser microprobes for this process. A target mineral grain is placed in an ultrahigh vacuum chamber fitted with a window of appropriate composition to transmit ultraviolet radiation. A focused ArF (193 nm) excimer laser is used to ablate tapered cylindrical pits on the surface of the target. The liberated material is scrubbed with a series of getters in a fashion similar to that used for 40Ar/39Ar geochronology, and the 4He abundance is determined using a quadrupole mass spectrometer with well-calibrated sensitivity. A key requirement for calculation of the 4He abundance in the target is a precise knowledge of the volume of the ablation pit. This is the principal reason why we employ the ArF excimer for 4He analysis rather than a less-expensive frequency-multiplied Nd-YAG laser; the excimer creates tapered cylindrical pits with extremely reproducible and easily characterized geometry. After 4He analysis, U and Th are measured on the same sample surface using the more familiar technique of laser-ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICPMS). Our early experiments have been done using a frequency-quintupled Nd-YAG microprobe (213nm), While the need to analyze U+Th and He in separate ablation experiments results in considerably worse spatial resolution than that typically possible for 40Ar/39Ar laser microprobe dating, it is possible to site the LA-ICPMS ablation pit within a few microns of the pit used for He extraction, or to simply re-occupy and enlarge the original ablation pit. The potential effective spatial resolution of the technique is thus on the order of a few tens to roughly 100 microns. As a proof-of-concept exercise, we have applied this technique to fluorapatite from Cerro de Mercado, Durango, Mexico, which has a generally accepted (U-Th)/He age of 32.1 +/- 3.4 Ma (2 sigma) based on single-crystal fusion analyses reported by House et al. (2000, EPSL). Using the approach described above, we made 48 separate age measurements on a 12 mm polished section cut through a single crystal of Durango fluorapatite perpendicular to its c axis. The measured dates yield a mean of 34.9 +/- 5.1 Ma (2 sigma), with a total dispersion of dates comparable to that reported by House et al. Much of the apparent age variation observed in both studies is due to documented U+Th heterogeneities in single crystals of the Durango fluorapatite. Nevertheless, the consistency of the laser ablation and conventional results for this material is striking. Compared to conventional laser and furnace methods of (U-Th)/He geochronology, the laser microprobe approach offers substantially improved spatial resolution, and the ability to avoid (or at least minimize) alpha-ejection corrections. In addition, the method affords improved sample throughput, such that age estimates for homogeneous materials can be made with considerably higher precision based on a larger number of analyses.

Advanced Rigid Ablative TPS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gasch, Matthew J.

2011-01-01

NASA Exploration Systems Mission Directorate s (ESMD) Entry, Descent, and Landing (EDL) Technology Development Project (TDP) and the NASA Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate s (ARMD) Hypersonics Project are developing new advanced rigid ablators in an effort to substantially increase reliability, decrease mass, and reduce life cycle cost of rigid aeroshell-based entry systems for multiple missions. Advanced Rigid Ablators combine ablation resistant top layers capable of high heat flux entry and enable high-speed EDL with insulating mass-efficient bottom that, insulate the structure and lower the areal weight. These materials may benefit Commercial Orbital Transportation Services (COTS) vendors and may potentially enable new NASA missions for higher velocity returns (e.g. asteroid, Mars). The materials have been thermally tested to 400-450 W/sq cm at the Laser Hardened Materials Evaluation Lab (LHMEL), Hypersonics Materials Evaluation Test System (HyMETS) and in arcjet facilities. Tested materials exhibit much lower backface temperatures and reduced recession over the baseline materials (PICA). Although the EDL project is ending in FY11, NASA in-house development of advanced ablators will continue with a focus on varying resin systems and fiber/resin interactions.

Design and fabrication of a basic mass analyzer and vacuum system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Judson, C. M.; Josias, C.; Lawrence, J. L., Jr.

1977-01-01

A two-inch hyperbolic rod quadrupole mass analyzer with a mass range of 400 to 200 amu and a sensitivity exceeding 100 packs per billion has been developed and tested. This analyzer is the basic hardware portion of a microprocessor-controlled quadrupole mass spectrometer for a Gas Analysis and Detection System (GADS). The development and testing of the hyperbolic-rod quadrupole mass spectrometer and associated hardware are described in detail.

NEGATIVE ION ELECTROSPRAY OF BROMO- AND CHLORACETIC ACIDS AND AN EVALUATION OF EXACT MASS MEASUREMENTS WITH A BENCH-TOP TIME-OF-FLIGHT MASS SPECTROMETER

EPA Science Inventory

The negative ion electrospray mass spectra of six bromo- and chloroacetic acids were measured using two different electrospray interfaces and single quadrupole and bench-top time-of-flight mass spectrometers. With each acid at 50 ug/mL in aqueous methanol at pH 10, the anions ob...

Strontium isotope ratios (87Sr/86Sr) of tooth enamel: a comparison of solution and laser ablation multicollector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry methods.

PubMed

Copeland, Sandi R; Sponheimer, Matt; le Roux, Petrus J; Grimes, Vaughan; Lee-Thorp, Julia A; de Ruiter, Darryl J; Richards, Michael P

2008-10-01

Strontium isotope ratios (87Sr/86Sr) in tooth enamel provide a means to investigate migration and landscape use in humans and other animals. Established methods for measuring (87)Sr/(86)Sr in teeth use bulk sampling (5-20 mg) and labor-intensive elemental purification procedures before analysis by either thermal ionization mass spectrometry (TIMS) or multicollector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (MC-ICP-MS). Another method for measuring 87Sr/86Sr is laser ablation MC-ICP-MS, but concerns have been expressed about its accuracy for measuring tooth enamel. In this study we test the precision and accuracy of the technique by analyzing 30 modern rodent teeth from the Sterkfontein Valley, South Africa by laser ablation MC-ICP-MS and solution MC-ICP-MS. The results show a mean difference in 87Sr/86Sr measured by laser ablation and by solution of 0.0003 +/- 0.0002. This degree of precision is well within the margin necessary for investigating the potential geographic origins of humans or animals in many areas of the world. Because laser ablation is faster, less expensive, and less destructive than bulk sampling solution methods, it opens the possibility for conducting 87Sr/86Sr analyses of intra-tooth samples and small and/or rare specimens such as micromammal and fossil teeth.

Spatially tracking 13C labeled substrate (bicarbonate) accumulation in microbial communities using laser ablation isotope ratio mass spectrometry

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Moran, James J.; Doll, Charles G.; Bernstein, Hans C.

2014-08-25

This is a manuscript we would like to submit for publication in Environmental Microbiology Reports. This manuscript contains a description of a laser ablation isotope ratio mass spectrometry methodology developed at PNNL and applied to a microbial system at a PNNL project location – Hot Lake, Washington. I will submit a word document containing the entire manuscript with this Erica input request form.

Final Report - Advanced Ion Trap Mass Spectrometry Program - Oak Ridge National Laboratory - Sandia National Laboratory

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Whitten, W.B.

This report covers the three main projects that collectively comprised the Advanced Ion Trap Mass Spectrometry Program. Chapter 1 describes the direct interrogation of individual particles by laser desorption within the ion trap mass spectrometer analyzer. The goals were (1) to develop an ''intelligent trigger'' capable of distinguishing particles of biological origin from those of nonbiological origin in the background and interferent particles and (2) to explore the capability for individual particle identification. Direct interrogation of particles by laser ablation and ion trap mass spectrometry was shown to have good promise for discriminating between particles of biological origin and thosemore » of nonbiological origin, although detailed protocols and operating conditions were not worked out. A library of more than 20,000 spectra of various types of biological particles has been assembled. Methods based on multivariate analysis and on neural networks were used to discriminate between particles of biological origin and those of nonbiological origin. It was possible to discriminate between at least some species of bacteria if mass spectra of several hundred similar particles were obtained. Chapter 2 addresses the development of a new ion trap mass analyzer geometry that offers the potential for a significant increase in ion storage capacity for a given set of analyzer operating conditions. This geometry may lead to the development of smaller, lower-power field-portable ion trap mass spectrometers while retaining laboratory-scale analytical performance. A novel ion trap mass spectrometer based on toroidal ion storage geometry has been developed. The analyzer geometry is based on the edge rotation of a quadrupolar ion trap cross section into the shape of a torus. Initial performance of this device was poor, however, due to the significant contribution of nonlinear fields introduced by the rotation of the symmetric ion-trapping geometry. These nonlinear resonances contributed to poor mass resolution and sensitivity and to erratic ion ejection behavior. To correct for these nonlinear effects, the geometry of the toroid ion trap analyzer has been modified to create an asymmetric torus, as first suggested by computer simulations that predicted significantly improved performance and unit mass resolution for this geometry. A reduced-sized version (one-fifth scale) has been fabricated but was not tested within the scope of this project. Chapter 3 describes groundbreaking progress toward the use of ion-ion chemistry to control the charge state of ions formed by the electrospray ionization process, which in turn enables precision analysis of whole proteins. In addition, this technique may offer the unique possibility of a priori identification of unknown biological material when employed with existing proteomics and genomic databases. Ion-ion chemistry within the ion trap was used to reduce the ions in highly charged states to states of +1 and +2 charges. Reduction in charge greatly simplifies identification of molecular weights of fragments from large biological molecules. This technique enables the analysis of whole proteins as biomarkers for the detection and identification of all three classes of biological weapons (bacteria, toxins, and viruses). In addition to methods development, tests were carried out with samples of tap water, local creek water, and soil (local red clay) spiked with melittin (bee venom), cholera toxin, and virus MS2. All three analytes were identified in tap water and soil; however, all three were problematic for detection in creek water at concentrations of 1 nM. More development of methods is needed.« less

Experimental study on ablative stabilization of Rayleigh-Taylor instability of laser-irradiated targets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shigemori, Keisuke; Sakaiya, Tatsuhiko; Otani, Kazuto; Fujioka, Shinsuke; Nakai, Mitsuo; Azechi, Hiroshi; Shiraga, Hiroyuki; Tamari, Yohei; Okuno, Kazuki; Sunahara, Atsushi; Nagatomo, Hideo; Murakami, Masakatsu; Nishihara, Katsunobu; Izawa, Yasukazu

2004-09-01

Hydrodynamic instabilities are key issues of the physics of inertial confinement fusion (ICF) targets. Among the instabilities, Rayleigh-Taylor (RT) instability is the most important because it gives the largest growth factor in the ICF targets. Perturbations on the laser irradiated surface grow exponentially, but the growth rate is reduced by ablation flow. The growth rate γ is written as Takabe-Betti formula: γ = [kg/(1+kL)]1/2-βkm/pa, where k is wave number of the perturbation, g is acceleration, L is density scale-length, β is a coefficient, m is mass ablation rate per unit surface, and ρa is density at the ablation front. We experimentally measured all the parameters in the formula for polystyrene (CH) targets. Experiments were done on the HIPER laser facility at Institute of Laser Engineering, Osaka University. We found that the β value in the formula is ~ 1.7, which is in good agreements with the theoretical prediction, whereas the β for certain perturbation wavelengths are larger than the prediction. This disagreement between the experiment and the theory is mainly due to the deformation of the cutoff surface, which is created by non-uniform ablation flow from the ablation surface. We also found that high-Z doped plastic targets have multiablation structure, which can reduce the RT growth rate. When a low-Z target with high-Z dopant is irradiated by laser, radiation due to the high-Z dopant creates secondary ablation front deep inside the target. Since, the secondary ablation front is ablated by x-rays, the mass ablation rate is larger than the laser-irradiated ablation surface, that is, further reduction of the RT growth is expected. We measured the RT growth rate of Br-doped polystyrene targets. The experimental results indicate that of the CHBr targets show significantly small growth rate, which is very good news for the design of the ICF targets.

Mass spectrometer having a derivatized sample presentation apparatus

DOEpatents

Nelson, Randall W.

2000-07-25

A mass spectrometer having a derivatized sample presentation apparatus is provided. The sample presentation apparatus has a complex bound to the surface of the sample presentation apparatus. This complex includes a molecule which may chemically modify a biomolecule.

Implosion dynamics measurements at the National Ignition Facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hicks, D. G.; Meezan, N. B.; Dewald, E. L.; Mackinnon, A. J.; Olson, R. E.; Callahan, D. A.; Döppner, T.; Benedetti, L. R.; Bradley, D. K.; Celliers, P. M.; Clark, D. S.; Di Nicola, P.; Dixit, S. N.; Dzenitis, E. G.; Eggert, J. E.; Farley, D. R.; Frenje, J. A.; Glenn, S. M.; Glenzer, S. H.; Hamza, A. V.; Heeter, R. F.; Holder, J. P.; Izumi, N.; Kalantar, D. H.; Khan, S. F.; Kline, J. L.; Kroll, J. J.; Kyrala, G. A.; Ma, T.; MacPhee, A. G.; McNaney, J. M.; Moody, J. D.; Moran, M. J.; Nathan, B. R.; Nikroo, A.; Opachich, Y. P.; Petrasso, R. D.; Prasad, R. R.; Ralph, J. E.; Robey, H. F.; Rinderknecht, H. G.; Rygg, J. R.; Salmonson, J. D.; Schneider, M. B.; Simanovskaia, N.; Spears, B. K.; Tommasini, R.; Widmann, K.; Zylstra, A. B.; Collins, G. W.; Landen, O. L.; Kilkenny, J. D.; Hsing, W. W.; MacGowan, B. J.; Atherton, L. J.; Edwards, M. J.

2012-12-01

Measurements have been made of the in-flight dynamics of imploding capsules indirectly driven by laser energies of 1-1.7 MJ at the National Ignition Facility [Miller et al., Nucl. Fusion 44, 228 (2004)]. These experiments were part of the National Ignition Campaign [Landen et al., Phys. Plasmas 18, 051002 (2011)] to iteratively optimize the inputs required to achieve thermonuclear ignition in the laboratory. Using gated or streaked hard x-ray radiography, a suite of ablator performance parameters, including the time-resolved radius, velocity, mass, and thickness, have been determined throughout the acceleration history of surrogate gas-filled implosions. These measurements have been used to establish a dynamically consistent model of the ablative drive history and shell compressibility throughout the implosion trajectory. First results showed that the peak velocity of the original 1.3-MJ Ge-doped polymer (CH) point design using Au hohlraums reached only 75% of the required ignition velocity. Several capsule, hohlraum, and laser pulse changes were then implemented to improve this and other aspects of implosion performance and a dedicated effort was undertaken to test the sensitivity of the ablative drive to the rise time and length of the main laser pulse. Changing to Si rather than Ge-doped inner ablator layers and increasing the pulse length together raised peak velocity to 93% ± 5% of the ignition goal using a 1.5 MJ, 420 TW pulse. Further lengthening the pulse so that the laser remained on until the capsule reached 30% (rather than 60%-70%) of its initial radius, reduced the shell thickness and improved the final fuel ρR on companion shots with a cryogenic hydrogen fuel layer. Improved drive efficiency was observed using U rather than Au hohlraums, which was expected, and by slowing the rise time of laser pulse, which was not. The effect of changing the Si-dopant concentration and distribution, as well as the effect of using a larger initial shell thickness were also examined, both of which indicated that instabilities seeded at the ablation front are a significant source of hydrodynamic mix into the central hot spot. Additionally, a direct test of the surrogacy of cryogenic fuel layered versus gas-filled targets was performed. Together all these measurements have established the fundamental ablative-rocket relationship describing the dependence of implosion velocity on fractional ablator mass remaining. This curve shows a lower-than-expected ablator mass at a given velocity, making the capsule more susceptible to feedthrough of instabilities from the ablation front into the fuel and hot spot. This combination of low velocity and low ablator mass indicates that reaching ignition on the NIF will require >20 μm (˜10%) thicker targets and laser powers at or beyond facility limits.

Implosion dynamics measurements at the National Ignition Facility

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hicks, D. G.; Meezan, N. B.; Dewald, E. L.

2012-12-15

Measurements have been made of the in-flight dynamics of imploding capsules indirectly driven by laser energies of 1-1.7 MJ at the National Ignition Facility [Miller et al., Nucl. Fusion 44, 228 (2004)]. These experiments were part of the National Ignition Campaign [Landen et al., Phys. Plasmas 18, 051002 (2011)] to iteratively optimize the inputs required to achieve thermonuclear ignition in the laboratory. Using gated or streaked hard x-ray radiography, a suite of ablator performance parameters, including the time-resolved radius, velocity, mass, and thickness, have been determined throughout the acceleration history of surrogate gas-filled implosions. These measurements have been used tomore » establish a dynamically consistent model of the ablative drive history and shell compressibility throughout the implosion trajectory. First results showed that the peak velocity of the original 1.3-MJ Ge-doped polymer (CH) point design using Au hohlraums reached only 75% of the required ignition velocity. Several capsule, hohlraum, and laser pulse changes were then implemented to improve this and other aspects of implosion performance and a dedicated effort was undertaken to test the sensitivity of the ablative drive to the rise time and length of the main laser pulse. Changing to Si rather than Ge-doped inner ablator layers and increasing the pulse length together raised peak velocity to 93% {+-} 5% of the ignition goal using a 1.5 MJ, 420 TW pulse. Further lengthening the pulse so that the laser remained on until the capsule reached 30% (rather than 60%-70%) of its initial radius, reduced the shell thickness and improved the final fuel {rho}R on companion shots with a cryogenic hydrogen fuel layer. Improved drive efficiency was observed using U rather than Au hohlraums, which was expected, and by slowing the rise time of laser pulse, which was not. The effect of changing the Si-dopant concentration and distribution, as well as the effect of using a larger initial shell thickness were also examined, both of which indicated that instabilities seeded at the ablation front are a significant source of hydrodynamic mix into the central hot spot. Additionally, a direct test of the surrogacy of cryogenic fuel layered versus gas-filled targets was performed. Together all these measurements have established the fundamental ablative-rocket relationship describing the dependence of implosion velocity on fractional ablator mass remaining. This curve shows a lower-than-expected ablator mass at a given velocity, making the capsule more susceptible to feedthrough of instabilities from the ablation front into the fuel and hot spot. This combination of low velocity and low ablator mass indicates that reaching ignition on the NIF will require >20 {mu}m ({approx}10%) thicker targets and laser powers at or beyond facility limits.« less

A Mass Spectrometry Study of Isotope Separation in the Laser Plume

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suen, Timothy Wu

Accurate quantification of isotope ratios is critical for both preventing the development of illicit weapons programs in nuclear safeguards and identifying the source of smuggled material in nuclear forensics. While isotope analysis has traditionally been performed by mass spectrometry, the need for in situ measurements has prompted the development of optical techniques, such as laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) and laser ablation molecular isotopic spectrometry (LAMIS). These optical measurements rely on laser ablation for direct solid sampling, but several past studies have suggested that the distribution of isotopes in the ablation plume is not uniform. This study seeks to characterize isotope separation in the laser plume through the use of orthogonal-acceleration time-of-flight mass spectrometry. A silver foil was ablated with a Nd:YAG at 355 nm at an energy of 50 muJ with a spot size of 71 mum, for a fluence of 1.3 J/cm2 and an irradiance of 250 MW/cm2. Flat-plate repellers were used to sample the plume, and a temporal profile of the ions was obtained by varying the time delay on the high-voltage pulse. A spatial profile along the axis of the plume was generated by changing the position of the sample, which yielded snapshots of the isotopic composition with time. In addition, the reflectron time-of-flight system was used as an energy filter in conjunction with the repellers to sample slices of the laser plasma orthogonal to the plume axis. Mass spectrometry of the plume revealed a fast ion distribution and a slow ion distribution. Measurements taken across the entire plume showed the fast 109Ag ions slightly ahead in both space and time, causing the 107Ag fraction to drop to 0.34 at 3 mus, 4 mm from the sample surface. Although measurements centered on the near side of the plume did not show isotope separation, the slow ions on the far side of the plume included much more 109Ag than 107Ag. In addition to examining the isotope content of the ablation plume, this study has developed a mass spectrometry characterization technique that may be useful for investigating chemical reactions during laser ablation.

Electronics for a Spectrometer

NASA Image and Video Library

2014-01-24

NASA has provided part of the electronics package for an instrument called the Double Focusing Mass Spectrometer, which is part of the Swiss-built Rosetta Orbiter Spectrometer for Ion and Neutral Analysis ROSINA instrument.

A feasibility study of ion implantation techniques for mass spectrometer calibration

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koslin, M. E.; Krycuk, G. A.; Schatz, J. G., Jr.; White, F. A.; Wood, G. M.

1978-01-01

An experimental study was undertaken to examine the feasibility of using ion-implanted filaments doped with either an alkali metal or noble gas for in situ recalibration of onboard mass spectrometers during extended space missions. Implants of rubidium and krypton in rhenium ribbon filaments were subsequently tested in a bakeable 60 deg sector mass spectrometer operating in the static mode. Surface ionization and electron impact ion sources were both used, each yielding satisfactory results. The metallic implant with subsequent ionization provided a means of mass scale calibration and determination of system operating parameters, whereas the noble gas thermally desorbed into the system was more suited for partial pressure and sensitivity determinations.

Ion mass spectrometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Neugebauer, M. (Inventor); Clay, D. R.; Goldstein, B. E.; Goldstein, R.

1984-01-01

An ion mass spectrometer is described which detects and indicates the characteristics of ions received over a wide angle, and which indicates the mass to charge ratio, the energy, and the direction of each detected ion. The spectrometer includes a magnetic analyzer having a sector magnet that passes ions received over a wide angle, and an electrostatic analyzer positioned to receive ions passing through the magnetic analyzer. The electrostatic analyzer includes a two dimensional ion sensor at one wall of the analyzer chamber, that senses not only the lengthwise position of the detected ion to indicate its mass to charge ratio, but also detects the ion position along the width of the chamber to indicate the direction in which the ion was traveling.

Interface for the rapid analysis of liquid samples by accelerator mass spectrometry

DOEpatents

Turteltaub, Kenneth; Ognibene, Ted; Thomas, Avi; Daley, Paul F; Salazar Quintero, Gary A; Bench, Graham

2014-02-04

An interface for the analysis of liquid sample having carbon content by an accelerator mass spectrometer including a wire, defects on the wire, a system for moving the wire, a droplet maker for producing droplets of the liquid sample and placing the droplets of the liquid sample on the wire in the defects, a system that converts the carbon content of the droplets of the liquid sample to carbon dioxide gas in a helium stream, and a gas-accepting ion source connected to the accelerator mass spectrometer that receives the carbon dioxide gas of the sample in a helium stream and introduces the carbon dioxide gas of the sample into the accelerator mass spectrometer.

Mass Spectrometers in Space!

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brinckerhoff, William B.

2012-01-01

Exploration of our solar system over several decades has benefitted greatly from the sensitive chemical analyses offered by spaceflight mass spectrometers. When dealing with an unknown environment, the broadband detection capabilities of mass analyzers have proven extremely valuable in determining the composition and thereby the basic nature of space environments, including the outer reaches of Earth s atmosphere, interplanetary space, the Moon, and the planets and their satellites. Numerous mass analyzer types, including quadrupole, monopole, sector, ion trap, and time-of-flight have been incorporated in flight instruments and delivered robotically to a variety of planetary environments. All such instruments went through a rigorous process of application-specific development, often including significant miniaturization, testing, and qualification for the space environment. Upcoming missions to Mars and opportunities for missions to Venus, Europa, Saturn, Titan, asteroids, and comets provide new challenges for flight mass spectrometers that push to state of the art in fundamental analytical technique. The Sample Analysis at Mars (SAM) investigation on the recently-launch Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) rover mission incorporates a quadrupole analyzer to support direct evolved gas as well as gas chromatograph-based analysis of martian rocks and atmosphere, seeking signs of a past or present habitable environment. A next-generation linear ion trap mass spectrometer, using both electron impact and laser ionization, is being incorporated into the Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer (MOMA) instrument, which will be flown to Mars in 2018. These and other mass spectrometers and mission concepts at various stages of development will be described.

Precise determination of cosmogenic Ne in CREU-1 quartz standard, using the Helix-MC Plus mass spectrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hamilton, D.; Honda, M.; Zhang, X.; Phillips, D.; Matchan, E.

2017-12-01

The Helix-MC Plus multi-collector noble gas mass spectrometer at the Australian National University is uniquely equipped with three high mass resolution collectors on H2, Axial and L2 positions. Their mass resolution and mass resolving power are as high as 1,800 and 8,000, respectively. The Helix-MC Plus can totally separate 20Ne+ from 40Ar++ isobaric interference and also partially separate 21Ne+ from 20NeH+ and 22Ne+ from 12C16O2++. By adjusting collector positions, we are able to measure interference-free Ne isotope intensities and have re-determined the 21Ne abundance in air [1]. Analyses by Honda et al. [1] demonstrated that 20Ne1H contributes approximately 2% to previously determined atmospheric 21Ne values [2], and a new atmospheric 21Ne/20Ne ratio of 0.002906 was calculated. Using the Helix-MC Plus mass spectrometer, we measured Ne abundances in the CREU-1 quartz standard [3] and determined cosmogenic concentrations by subtraction of atmospheric Ne with the new atmospheric 21Ne/20Ne value. The average concentration of cosmogenic 21Ne determined from four repeated analyses is 338 ± 12 × 106 atom/g (2σ). This compares with the average concentration of 348 ± 10 × 106 atom/g (2σ) from 45 analyses determined by several laboratories [3], where Ne isotope analyses were undertaken by conventional low resolution mass spectrometers and atmospheric Ne was subtracted using the conventional atmospheric 21Ne/20Ne [2]. On this basis, for a sample with abundant cosmogenic Ne, like CREU-1 quartz, previously measured by low mass resolution mass spectrometers are likely valid and their geological implications are unaffected. However, for low 21Ne concentration samples, combining new generation of mass spectrometers as well as the new atmospheric ratio may have significance for cosmogenic 21Ne surface exposure dating. References: [1] Honda M., et. al., International Journal of Mass Spectrometry, 387, 1 (2015). [2] Eberhardt P., et. al., Zeitschrift fur Naturforschung, 20a, 623 (1965). [3] Vermeesch P., et. al., Quaternary Geochronology, 26, 20 (2015).

Determination of the presence or absence of sulfur materials in drywall using direct analysis in real time in conjunction with an accurate-mass time-of-flight mass spectrometer.

PubMed

Curtis, Matthew E; Jones, Patrick R; Sparkman, O David; Cody, Robert B

2009-11-01

Based on the concern about the presence of sulfur materials being in drywall (wallboard), a quick and reliable test to confirm the presence or absence of these materials using direct analysis in real time (DART) mass spectrometry in conjunction with an accurate-mass time-of-flight (TOF) mass spectrometer has been developed and is described here.

Development of a Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer-ion mobility spectrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bluhm, Brian K.; Gillig, Kent J.; Russell, David H.

2000-11-01

In an effort to incorporate ion-molecule reaction chemistry with ion mobility measurements we designed and constructed a novel instrument that combines a Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance (ICR) mass spectrometer with an ion mobility drift cell and a time-of-flight mass spectrometer. Measured mobilities for Ar+ and CO+ in helium are in excellent agreement with accepted literature values demonstrating that there are no adverse effects from the magnetic field on ion mobility measurements. Drift cell pressure, extracted from the measured mobility of Ar+ in helium, indicate that a pressure of ˜0.25 Torr is achieved in the present configuration. There are significant technological challenges associated with combining ICR and ion mobility that occurred during construction of this instrument, such as differential pumping and aperture alignment are presented.

High energy collisions on tandem time-of-flight mass spectrometers†

PubMed Central

Cotter, Robert J.

2013-01-01

Long before the introduction of matrix-assisted laser desorption (MALDI), electrospray ionization (ESI), Orbitraps and any of the other tools that are now used ubiquitously for proteomics and metabolomics, the highest performance mass spectrometers were sector instruments, providing high resolution mass measurements by combining an electrostatic energy analyzer (E) with a high field magnet (B). In its heyday, the four sector mass spectrometer (or EBEB) was the crown jewel, providing the highest performance tandem mass spectrometry using single, high energy collisions to induce fragmentation. During a time in which quadrupole and tandem triple quadrupole instruments were also enjoying increased usage and popularity, there were nonetheless some clear advantages for sectors over their low collision energy counterparts. Time-of-flight mass spectrometers are high voltage, high vacuum instruments that have much in common with sectors and have inspired the development of tandem instruments exploiting single high energy collisions. In this retrospective we recount our own journey to produce high performance time-of-flights and tandems, describing the basic theory, problems and the advantages for such instruments. An experiment testing impulse collision theory (ICT) underscores the similarities with sector mass spectrometers where this concept was first developed. Applications provide examples of more extensive fragmentation, side chain cleavages and charge-remote fragmentation, also characteristic of high energy sector mass spectrometers. Moreover, the so-called curved-field reflectron has enabled the design of instruments that are simpler, collect and focus all of the ions, and may provide the future technology for the clinic, for tissue imaging and the characterization of microorganisms. PMID:23519928

Fast Data Acquisition For Mass Spectrometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lincoln, K. A.; Bechtel, R. D.

1988-01-01

New equipment has speed and capacity to process time-of-flight data. System relies on fast, compact waveform digitizer with 32-k memory coupled to personal computer. With digitizer, system captures all mass peaks on each 25- to 35-microseconds cycle of spectrometer.

Trace Gas Analyzer (TGA) program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1977-01-01

The design, fabrication, and test of a breadboard trace gas analyzer (TGA) is documented. The TGA is a gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer system. The gas chromatograph subsystem employs a recirculating hydrogen carrier gas. The recirculation feature minimizes the requirement for transport and storage of large volumes of carrier gas during a mission. The silver-palladium hydrogen separator which permits the removal of the carrier gas and its reuse also decreases vacuum requirements for the mass spectrometer since the mass spectrometer vacuum system need handle only the very low sample pressure, not sample plus carrier. System performance was evaluated with a representative group of compounds.

The open-source neutral-mass spectrometer on Atmosphere Explorer-C, -D, and -E.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nier, A. O.; Potter, W. E.; Hickman, D. R.; Mauersberger, K.

1973-01-01

The open-source mass spectrometer will be used to obtain the number densities of the neutral atmospheric gases in the mass range 1 to 48 amu at the satellite location. The ion source has been designed to allow gas particles to enter the ionizing region with the minimum practicable number of prior collisions with surfaces. This design minimizes the loss of atomic oxygen and other reactive species due to reactions with the walls of the ion source. The principal features of the open-source spectrometer and the laboratory calibration system are discussed.

The contemporary role of ablative treatment approaches in the management of renal cell carcinoma (RCC): focus on radiofrequency ablation (RFA), high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), and cryoablation.

PubMed

Klatte, Tobias; Kroeger, Nils; Zimmermann, Uwe; Burchardt, Martin; Belldegrun, Arie S; Pantuck, Allan J

2014-06-01

Currently, most of renal tumors are small, low grade, with a slow growth rate, a low metastatic potential, and with up to 30 % of these tumors being benign on the final pathology. Moreover, they are often diagnosed in elderly patients with preexisting medical comorbidities in whom the underlying medical conditions may pose a greater risk of death than the small renal mass. Concerns regarding overdiagnosis and overtreatment of patients with indolent small renal tumors have led to an increasing interest in minimally invasive, ablative as an alternative to extirpative interventions for selected patients. To provide an overview about the state of the art in radiofrequency ablation (RFA), high-intensity focused ultrasound, and cryoablation in the clinical management of renal cell carcinoma. A PubMed wide the literature search of was conducted. International consensus panels recommend ablative techniques in patients who are unfit for surgery, who are not considered candidates for or elect against elective surveillance, and who have small renal masses. The most often used techniques are cryoablation and RFA. These ablative techniques offer potentially curative outcomes while conferring several advantages over extirpative surgery, including improved patient procedural tolerance, faster recovery, preservation of renal function, and reduction in the risk of intraoperative and postsurgical complications. While it is likely that outcomes associated with ablative modalities will improve with further advances in technology, their application will expand to more elective indications as longer-term efficacy data become available. Ablative techniques pose a valid treatment option in selected patients.

Long-term influence of body mass index on cardiovascular events after atrial fibrillation ablation.

PubMed

Bunch, T Jared; May, Heidi T; Bair, Tami L; Crandall, Brian G; Cutler, Michael J; Jacobs, Victoria; Mallender, Charles; Muhlestein, Joseph B; Osborn, Jeffrey S; Weiss, J Peter; Day, John D

2016-09-01

Catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) is an established therapeutic rhythm approach in symptomatic patients. Obesity is a dominant driver of AF recurrence after ablation. However, being both overweight and underweight drives long-term cardiac and general health risks. Long-term data are needed to understand the influence of body mass index (BMI) on outcomes after ablation in regard to arrhythmia recurrence and cardiovascular outcomes. All patients who underwent an index ablation with a BMI recorded and at least 3 years of follow-up were included (n = 1558). The group was separated and compared by index ablation BMI status (≤20, 21-25, 26-30, >30 kg/m(2)). Long-term outcomes included AF recurrence, stroke/TIA, heart failure (HF) hospitalization, and death. Patients with advancing BMI status were more likely to be male and have hypertension, a smoking history, diabetes, HF, and a prior cardioversion. Patients with a BMI ≤20 were more likely to have a moderate-high congestive heart failure, hypertension, age >75, diabetes, stroke (CHADS2) score. At 3 years, recurrence rates of AF increased significantly with increasing BMI status (p = 0.02); paradoxically, there was a trend for increased stroke risk with decreasing BMI (p = 0.06). Long-term death rates tended to increase inversely with BMI status, and HF rates were greatest in the highest and lowest BMI groups. Lower weight at AF ablation lowers arrhythmia recurrence risk. However, AF ablation patients who are normal or underweight remain at high risk of other cardiovascular outcomes including increased stroke risk with less AF burden.

Evaluation of pressure in a plasma produced by laser ablation of steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hermann, Jörg; Axente, Emanuel; Craciun, Valentin; Taleb, Aya; Pelascini, Frédéric

2018-05-01

We investigated the time evolution of pressure in the plume generated by laser ablation with ultraviolet nanosecond laser pulses in a near-atmospheric argon atmosphere. These conditions were previously identified to produce a plasma of properties that facilitate accurate spectroscopic diagnostics. Using steel as sample material, the present investigations benefit from the large number of reliable spectroscopic data available for iron. Recording time-resolved emission spectra with an echelle spectrometer, we were able to perform accurate measurements of electron density and temperature over a time interval from 200 ns to 12 μs. Assuming local thermodynamic equilibrium, we computed the plasma composition within the ablated vapor material and the corresponding kinetic pressure. The time evolution of plume pressure is shown to reach a minimum value below the pressure of the background gas. This indicates that the process of vapor-gas interdiffusion has a negligible influence on the plume expansion dynamics in the considered timescale. Moreover, the results promote the plasma pressure as a control parameter in calibration-free laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy.

Photoactive dye-enhanced tissue ablation for endoscopic laser prostatectomy.

PubMed

Ahn, Minwoo; Hau, Nguyen Trung; Van Phuc, Nguyen; Oh, Junghwan; Kang, Hyun Wook

2014-11-01

Laser light has been widely used as a surgical tool to treat benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) over 20 years. Recently, application of high laser power up to 200 W was often reported to swiftly remove a large amount of prostatic tissue. The purpose of this study was to validate the feasibility of photoactive dye injection to enhance light absorption and eventually to facilitate tissue vaporization with low laser power. Chicken breast tissue was selected as a target tissue due to minimal optical absorption at the visible wavelength. Four biocompatible photoactive dyes, including amaranth (AR), black dye (BD), hemoglobin powder (HP), and endoscopic marker (EM), were selected and tested in vitro with a customized 532 nm laser system with radiant exposure ranging from 0.9 to 3.9 J/cm(2) . Light absorbance and ablation threshold were measured with UV-Vis spectrometer and Probit analysis, respectively, and compared to feature the function of the injected dyes. Ablation performance with dye-injection was evaluated in light of radiant exposure, dye concentration, and number of injection. Higher light absorption by injected dyes led to lower ablation threshold as well as more efficient tissue removal in the order of AR, BD, HP, and EM. Regardless of the injected dyes, ablation efficiency principally increased with radiant exposure, dye concentration, and number of injection. Among the dyes, AR created the highest ablation rate of 44.2 ± 0.2 µm/pulse due to higher absorbance and lower ablation threshold. High aspect ratios up to 7.1 ± 0.4 entailed saturation behavior in the tissue ablation injected with AR and BD, possibly resulting from plume shielding and increased scattering due to coagulation. Preliminary tests on canine prostate with a hydraulic injection system demonstrated that 80 W with dye injection yielded comparable ablation efficiency to 120 W with no injection, indicating 33% reduced laser power with almost equivalent performance. Due to efficient coupling of optical energy, pre-injection of photoactive dyes promoted the degree of tissue removal during laser irradiation. Further studies will investigate spatial distribution of dyes and optimal injecting pressure to govern the extent of dye-assisted ablation in a predictable manner. In-depth comprehension on photoactive dye-enhanced tissue ablation can help accomplish efficient and safe laser vaporization for BPH with low power application. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Delta-Doped CCDs as Detector Arrays in Mass Spectrometers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nikzad, Shouleh; Jones, Todd; Jewell, April; Sinha, Mahadeva

2007-01-01

In a conventional mass spectrometer, charged particles (ions) are dispersed through a magnetic sector onto an MCP at an output (focal) plane. In the MCP, the impinging charged particles excite electron cascades that afford signal gain. Electrons leaving the MCP can be read out by any of a variety of means; most commonly, they are post-accelerated onto a solid-state detector array, wherein the electron pulses are converted to photons, which, in turn, are converted to measurable electric-current pulses by photodetectors. Each step in the conversion from the impinging charged particles to the output 26 NASA Tech Briefs, February 2007 current pulses reduces spatial resolution and increases noise, thereby reducing the overall sensitivity and performance of the mass spectrometer. Hence, it would be preferable to make a direct measurement of the spatial distribution of charged particles impinging on the focal plane. The utility of delta-doped CCDs as detectors of charged particles was reported in two articles in NASA Tech Briefs, Vol. 22, No. 7 (July 1998): "Delta-Doped CCDs as Low-Energy-Particle Detectors" (NPO-20178) on page 48 and "Delta- Doped CCDs for Measuring Energies of Positive Ions" (NPO-20253) on page 50. In the present developmental miniature mass spectrometers, the above mentioned miniaturization and performance advantages contributed by the use of delta-doped CCDs are combined with the advantages afforded by the Mattauch-Herzog design. The Mattauch- Herzog design is a double-focusing spectrometer design involving an electric and a magnetic sector, where the ions of different masses are spatially separated along the focal plane of magnetic sector. A delta-doped CCD at the focal plane measures the signals of all the charged-particle species simultaneously at high sensitivity and high resolution, thereby nearly instantaneously providing a complete, high-quality mass spectrum. The simultaneous nature of the measurement of ions stands in contrast to that of a scanning mass spectrometer, in which abundances of different masses are measured at successive times.

Mapping of lead, magnesium and copper accumulation in plant tissues by laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy and laser-ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaiser, J.; Galiová, M.; Novotný, K.; Červenka, R.; Reale, L.; Novotný, J.; Liška, M.; Samek, O.; Kanický, V.; Hrdlička, A.; Stejskal, K.; Adam, V.; Kizek, R.

2009-01-01

Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) and Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) were utilized for mapping the accumulation of Pb, Mg and Cu with a resolution up to 200 μm in a up to cm × cm area of sunflower ( Helianthus annuus L.) leaves. The results obtained by LIBS and LA-ICP-MS are compared with the outcomes from Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS) and Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC). It is shown that laser-ablation based analytical methods can substitute or supplement these techniques mainly in the cases when a fast multi-elemental mapping of a large sample area is needed.

Shuttle Upper Atmosphere Mass Spectrometer Experimental Flight Results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Blanchard, R. C.; Ozoroski, Thomas A.; Nicholson, John Y.

1994-01-01

Calibrated pressure measurements for species with mass-to-charge ratios up to 50 amu/e(-) were obtained trom the shuttle upper atmosphere mass spectrometer experiment during re-entry on the STS-35 mission. The principal experimental objective is to obtain measurements of freestream density in the hypersonic rarefied flow flight regime. Data were collected from 180 to about 87 km. However, data above 115 km were contaminated from a source of gas emanating from pressure transdueers connected in parallel to the mass spectrometer. At lower altitudes, the pressure transducer data are compared to the mass spectrometer total pressure with excellent agreement. Near the orifice entrance, a significant amount of CO2 was generated from chemical reactions. The freestream density in the rarefied flow flight regime is calculated using an orifice pressure coefficient model based upon direct simulation Monte Carlo results. This density, when compared with the 1976 U.S. Standard Atmosphere model, exhibits the wavelike nature seen on previous flights using accelerometry. Selected spectra are presented at higher altitudes (320 km) showing the effects of the ingestion of gases from a forward fuselage fuel dump.

Evolution of the coma composition at 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko as seen by ROSINA/Rosetta from November 2014 to April 2015

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gasc, Sébastien; Altwegg, Kathrin; Balsiger, Hans; Calmonte, Ursina; Galli, André; Jäckel, Annette; Le Roy, Léna; Rubin, Martin; Tzou, Chia-Yu; Wurz, Peter; Berthelier, Jean-Jacques; Fiethe, Björn; Fuselier, Stephen; Gombosi, Tamas; De Keyser, Johan; Mall, Urs; Rème, Henri

2015-04-01

The European Space Agency's Rosetta spacecraft, with the Rosetta Orbiter Spectrometer for Ion and Neutral Analysis (ROSINA) onboard [1], has been following and observing comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko (67P/C-G) since August 2014. ROSINA has provided new information on the molecular, elemental, and isotopic composition of 67P/C-G's coma [2,3]. ROSINA consists of a pressure sensor (COPS) and two mass spectrometers, the Double Focusing Mass Spectrometer (DFMS) and the Reflectron Time Of Flight mass spectrometer (RTOF). DFMS has a high mass resolution (ca. 3'000 at 1%) and a high sensitivity, whereas RTOF has a wide mass range (from 1 amu/e to >300 amu/e) and a high temporal resolution. Both mass spectrometers are designed to measure cometary neutral gas as well as cometary ions. In this work, we present the first results and discuss the evolution of the composition of the coma measured by ROSINA from November 2014 until the end of March 2015. During this period, Rosetta delivered the lander, then stayed in bound orbits at distances of 20-30 km away from the comet center, and finally performed comet flybys from 10 km up to 250 km away from 67P/C-G. [1] Balsiger, H. et al.: ROSINA-Rosetta Orbiter Spectrometer for Ion and Neutral Analysis, Space Science Reviews, Vol. 128, 745-801, 2007 [2] Altwegg, K. et al.: Comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko, a true Kuiper belt comet as judged from its D/H in water, Science Express, 2014 [3] Hässig, M. et al.: Time variability and heterogeneity in the coma of 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko, Science, in press, 2015

Performance evaluation of a miniature magnetic sector mass spectrometer onboard a satellite in space.

PubMed

Guo, Meiru; Li, Detian; Cheng, Yongjun; Wang, Yongjun; Sun, Wenjun; Pei, Xiaoqiang; Dong, Meng; Sheng, Xuemin; Zhao, Lan; Li, Yanwu

2018-04-01

With the rapid development of space technology in China, it is urgent to use mass spectrometer to detect the space environment. In this work, a space miniature magnetic sector mass spectrometer is evaluated, which consists of three subsystems: (1) physical unit, (2) electric control unit, (3) and high voltage power. It has 90° magnetic sector-field analyzer with double trajectory, in which a trajectory measurement range is from 1 to 12 amu, the other range is from 6 to 90 amu.The mass spectrometer has two work models, one is used to measure space neutral gas when the filament of mass spectrometer ion source turned on, the other is used to measure space charged ions when the filament turned off. The absolute resolution of this device is less than 1 amu, the minimum detectable ion current is about 10 -13  A, and the sensitivity is 10 -6  A/Pa (N 2 ). Its overall size is 170 mm × 165 mm × 170 mm, its weight is 4.5 kg, and its power consumption is 18 W. A series of environmental adaptability tests, including high and low temperature cycle, shock, vibration, thermal vacuum cycle, were carried out on the ground before launching, and sensitivity and peak position were also calibrated on the ground. In November 2012, the mass spectrometer was carried by an experimental satellite to 499 km sun synchronization and is still working right now. It successfully detected the atmosphere compositions both in the satellite orbit and gas-emitted from satellite, including O, He, 12 CO 2 , 13 CO 2 , H 2 , N 2 , O 2 , H 2 O, and so on.

Measurement and Visualization of Mass Transport for the Flowing Atmospheric Pressure Afterglow (FAPA) Ambient Mass-Spectrometry Source

PubMed Central

Pfeuffer, Kevin P.; Ray, Steven J.; Hieftje, Gary M.

2014-01-01

Ambient desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (ADI-MS) has developed into an important analytical field over the last nine years. The ability to analyze samples under ambient conditions while retaining the sensitivity and specificity of mass spectrometry has led to numerous applications and a corresponding jump in the popularity of this field. Despite the great potential of ADI-MS, problems remain in the areas of ion identification and quantification. Difficulties with ion identification can be solved through modified instrumentation, including accurate-mass or MS/MS capabilities for analyte identification. More difficult problems include quantification due to the ambient nature of the sampling process. To characterize and improve sample volatilization, ionization, and introduction into the mass-spectrometer interface, a method of visualizing mass transport into the mass spectrometer is needed. Schlieren imaging is a well-established technique that renders small changes in refractive index visible. Here, schlieren imaging was used to visualize helium flow from a plasma-based ADI-MS source into a mass spectrometer while ion signals were recorded. Optimal sample positions for melting-point capillary and transmission-mode (stainless steel mesh) introduction were found to be near (within 1 mm of) the mass spectrometer inlet. Additionally, the orientation of the sampled surface plays a significant role. More efficient mass transport resulted for analyte deposits directly facing the MS inlet. Different surfaces (glass slide and rough surface) were also examined; for both it was found that the optimal position is immediately beneath the MS inlet. PMID:24658804

Measurement and visualization of mass transport for the flowing atmospheric pressure afterglow (FAPA) ambient mass-spectrometry source.

PubMed

Pfeuffer, Kevin P; Ray, Steven J; Hieftje, Gary M

2014-05-01

Ambient desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (ADI-MS) has developed into an important analytical field over the last 9 years. The ability to analyze samples under ambient conditions while retaining the sensitivity and specificity of mass spectrometry has led to numerous applications and a corresponding jump in the popularity of this field. Despite the great potential of ADI-MS, problems remain in the areas of ion identification and quantification. Difficulties with ion identification can be solved through modified instrumentation, including accurate-mass or MS/MS capabilities for analyte identification. More difficult problems include quantification because of the ambient nature of the sampling process. To characterize and improve sample volatilization, ionization, and introduction into the mass spectrometer interface, a method of visualizing mass transport into the mass spectrometer is needed. Schlieren imaging is a well-established technique that renders small changes in refractive index visible. Here, schlieren imaging was used to visualize helium flow from a plasma-based ADI-MS source into a mass spectrometer while ion signals were recorded. Optimal sample positions for melting-point capillary and transmission-mode (stainless steel mesh) introduction were found to be near (within 1 mm of) the mass spectrometer inlet. Additionally, the orientation of the sampled surface plays a significant role. More efficient mass transport resulted for analyte deposits directly facing the MS inlet. Different surfaces (glass slide and rough surface) were also examined; for both it was found that the optimal position is immediately beneath the MS inlet.

Measurement and Visualization of Mass Transport for the Flowing Atmospheric Pressure Afterglow (FAPA) Ambient Mass-Spectrometry Source

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pfeuffer, Kevin P.; Ray, Steven J.; Hieftje, Gary M.

2014-05-01

Ambient desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (ADI-MS) has developed into an important analytical field over the last 9 years. The ability to analyze samples under ambient conditions while retaining the sensitivity and specificity of mass spectrometry has led to numerous applications and a corresponding jump in the popularity of this field. Despite the great potential of ADI-MS, problems remain in the areas of ion identification and quantification. Difficulties with ion identification can be solved through modified instrumentation, including accurate-mass or MS/MS capabilities for analyte identification. More difficult problems include quantification because of the ambient nature of the sampling process. To characterize and improve sample volatilization, ionization, and introduction into the mass spectrometer interface, a method of visualizing mass transport into the mass spectrometer is needed. Schlieren imaging is a well-established technique that renders small changes in refractive index visible. Here, schlieren imaging was used to visualize helium flow from a plasma-based ADI-MS source into a mass spectrometer while ion signals were recorded. Optimal sample positions for melting-point capillary and transmission-mode (stainless steel mesh) introduction were found to be near (within 1 mm of) the mass spectrometer inlet. Additionally, the orientation of the sampled surface plays a significant role. More efficient mass transport resulted for analyte deposits directly facing the MS inlet. Different surfaces (glass slide and rough surface) were also examined; for both it was found that the optimal position is immediately beneath the MS inlet.

An Ldrims Instrument for Portable Rb-Sr Dating with Accuracy of Better than ±150 MA for the MARS-2020 Rover

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anderson, F. Scott; Whitaker, Tom; Hamilton, Victoria; Nowicki, Keith

2013-04-01

Using a laser desorption resonance ionization mass spectrometer (LDRIMS), we can now demonstrate repeatable dates with portable hardware that could be carried on MER- or MSL-sized rovers. This is important because NASA is developing science requirements for a Mars 2020 rover mission based on MSL hardware, and for Mars, the National Research Council Decadal Survey (NRC DS) specifically supports: "...long-term development of instruments ... focusing on the most important future in situ measurements... [including] ... in situ geochronology experiments". The LDRIMS instrument can produce these science measurements today, and in so doing, triage samples for Mars Sample Return. The LDRIMS technique can be miniaturized and avoids the mass interference issues requiring unwieldy chemical separation for traditional geochronology techniques. With LDRIMS sample is placed in a time-of-flight (TOF) mass spectrometer and surface atoms, molecules, and ions are desorbed with a 213 nm laser. Ions are suppressed by an electric field and the plume of expanding particles is present for many μs, during which it is first illuminated with laser light tuned to ionize only Sr, and then 1-3 μs later, for Rb. This eliminates isobars for Rb and Sr, insures that the measured atoms come from the same ablation event, and hence target materials, and reduces the total number of measurements required. The LDRIMS system has demonstrated a sensitivity of 300 parts-per-trillion, and isotope ratio precisions of ±0.3 to ±0.1% in 3000-5000 ablations of one spot on a sample in 3-5 minutes. The bench top prototype has been tested on the Boulder Creek Granite (BCG) from Elephant Butte, Colorado, comprised primarily of a gneissic quartz monzonite and granodiorite. Whole rock Rb-Sr TIMS measurements of the BCG, and our own preliminary micro-drill TIMS measurements of individual minerals, are consistent with an age of 1700±40 Ma. To obtain a LDRIMS date using the BCG sample, we measured hundreds of spots with a ~300 μm spacing, producing microscopic pits ~75 μm wide by ~0.5 μm deep. We also acquire interleaved measurements of a glass calibration standard, MPI-DING-T1-G. Four repeat measurement runs were carried out over 6 months; the results have an average of 1.766 Ma±0.147 Ga for an MSWD=1, and for an MSWD=2, the average precision improves to ±0.105 Ga; both measurements have a precision and accuracy better than that called for by NASA (< ±200 Ma). A second-generation portable version of the instrument has been built, with an approximate volume of 0.25 m^3. We are now working on developing a "flight like" instrument, with a volume of approximately 0.03 m^3.

Time-of-flights and traps: from the Histone Code to Mars.

PubMed

Cotter, Robert J; Swatkoski, Stepehen; Becker, Luann; Evans-Nguyen, Theresa

2010-01-01

Two very different analytical instruments are featured in this perspective paper on mass spectrometer design and development. The first instrument, based upon the curved-field reflectron developed in the Johns Hopkins Middle Atlantic Mass Spectrometry Laboratory, is a tandem time-of-flight mass spectrometer whose performance and practicality are illustrated by applications to a series of research projects addressing the acetylation, deacetylation and ADP-ribosylation of histone proteins. The chemical derivatization of lysine-rich, hyperacetylated histones as their deuteroacetylated analogs enables one to obtain an accurate quantitative assessment of the extent of acetylation at each site. Chemical acetylation of histone mixtures is also used to determine the lysine targets of sirtuins, an important class of histone deacetylases (HDACs), by replacing the deacetylated residues with biotin. Histone deacetylation by sirtuins requires the co-factor NAD+, as does the attachment of ADP-ribose. The second instrument, a low voltage and low power ion trap mass spectrometer known as the Mars Organic Mass Analyzer (MOMA), is a prototype for an instrument expected to be launched in 2018. Like the tandem mass spectrometer, it is also expected to have applicability to environmental and biological analyses and, ultimately, to clinical care.

Time-of-flights and traps: from the Histone Code to Mars*

PubMed Central

Swatkoski, Stephen; Becker, Luann; Evans-Nguyen, Theresa

2011-01-01

Two very different analytical instruments are featured in this perspective paper on mass spectrometer design and development. The first instrument, based upon the curved-field reflectron developed in the Johns Hopkins Middle Atlantic Mass Spectrometry Laboratory, is a tandem time-of-flight mass spectrometer whose performance and practicality are illustrated by applications to a series of research projects addressing the acetylation, deacetylation and ADP-ribosylation of histone proteins. The chemical derivatization of lysine-rich, hyperacetylated histones as their deuteroacetylated analogs enables one to obtain an accurate quantitative assessment of the extent of acetylation at each site. Chemical acetylation of histone mixtures is also used to determine the lysine targets of sirtuins, an important class of histone deacetylases (HDACs), by replacing the deacetylated residues with biotin. Histone deacetylation by sirtuins requires the co-factor NAD+, as does the attachment of ADP-ribose. The second instrument, a low voltage and low power ion trap mass spectrometer known as the Mars Organic Mass Analyzer (MOMA), is a prototype for an instrument expected to be launched in 2018. Like the tandem mass spectrometer, it is also expected to have applicability to environmental and biological analyses and, ultimately, to clinical care. PMID:20530839

Advances in compact proton spectrometers for inertial-confinement fusion and plasma nuclear science.

PubMed

Seguin, F H; Sinenian, N; Rosenberg, M; Zylstra, A; Manuel, M J-E; Sio, H; Waugh, C; Rinderknecht, H G; Johnson, M Gatu; Frenje, J; Li, C K; Petrasso, R; Sangster, T C; Roberts, S

2012-10-01

Compact wedge-range-filter proton spectrometers cover proton energies ∼3-20 MeV. They have been used at the OMEGA laser facility for more than a decade for measuring spectra of primary D(3)He protons in D(3)He implosions, secondary D(3)He protons in DD implosions, and ablator protons in DT implosions; they are now being used also at the National Ignition Facility. The spectra are used to determine proton yields, shell areal density at shock-bang time and compression-bang time, fuel areal density, and implosion symmetry. There have been changes in fabrication and in analysis algorithms, resulting in a wider energy range, better accuracy and precision, and better robustness for survivability with indirect-drive inertial-confinement-fusion experiments.

Portable gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer

DOEpatents

Andresen, Brian D.; Eckels, Joel D.; Kimmons, James F.; Myers, David W.

1996-01-01

A gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer (GC-MS) for use as a field portable organic chemical analysis instrument. The GC-MS is designed to be contained in a standard size suitcase, weighs less than 70 pounds, and requires less than 600 watts of electrical power at peak power (all systems on). The GC-MS includes: a conduction heated, forced air cooled small bore capillary gas chromatograph, a small injector assembly, a self-contained ion/sorption pump vacuum system, a hydrogen supply, a dual computer system used to control the hardware and acquire spectrum data, and operational software used to control the pumping system and the gas chromatograph. This instrument incorporates a modified commercial quadrupole mass spectrometer to achieve the instrument sensitivity and mass resolution characteristic of laboratory bench top units.

Development of a Miniature Mass Spectrometer and an Automated Detector for Sampling Explosive Materials

PubMed Central

Hashimoto, Yuichiro

2017-01-01

The development of a robust ionization source using the counter-flow APCI, miniature mass spectrometer, and an automated sampling system for detecting explosives are described. These development efforts using mass spectrometry were made in order to improve the efficiencies of on-site detection in areas such as security, environmental, and industrial applications. A development team, including the author, has struggled for nearly 20 years to enhance the robustness and reduce the size of mass spectrometers to meet the requirements needed for on-site applications. This article focuses on the recent results related to the detection of explosive materials where automated particle sampling using a cyclone concentrator permitted the inspection time to be successfully reduced to 3 s. PMID:28337396

Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry for direct isotope ratio measurements on solid samples

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pickhardt, Carola; Dietze, Hans-Joachim; Becker, J. Sabine

2005-04-01

Isotope ratio measurements have been increasingly used in quite different application fields, e.g., for the investigation of isotope variation in nature, in geoscience (geochemistry and geochronology), in cosmochemistry and planetary science, in environmental science, e.g., in environmental monitoring, or by the application of the isotope dilution technique for quantification purposes using stable or radioactive high-enriched isotope tracers. Due to its high sensitivity, laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) is today a challenging mass spectrometric technique for the direct determination of precise and accurate isotope ratios in solid samples. In comparison to laser ablation quadrupole ICP-MS (LA-ICP-QMS), laser ablation coupled to a double-focusing sector field ICP-MS (LA-ICP-SFMS) with single ion detection offers a significant improvement of sensitivity at low mass resolution, whereby isotope ratios can be measured with a precision to 0.1% relative standard deviation (R.S.D.). In LA-ICP-SFMS, many disturbing isobaric interferences of analyte and molecular ions can be separated at the required mass resolution (e.g., 40Ar16O+ and 56Fe+ for iron isotope ratio measurements). The precision on isotope ratio measurements was improved by one order of magnitude via the simultaneous detection of mass-separated ion currents of isotopes using multiple ion collectors in LA-ICP-MS (LA-MC-ICP-MS). The paper discusses the state of the art, the challenges and limits in isotope ratio measurements by LA-ICP-MS using different instrumentations at the trace and ultratrace level in different fields of application as in environmental and biological research, geochemistry and geochronology with respect to their precision and accuracy.

EMMA, a Recoil Mass Spectrometer for TRIUMF's ISAC-II Facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Davids, Barry; EMMA Collaboration

2016-09-01

EMMA is a recoil mass spectrometer for TRIUMF's ISAC-II facility in the final stages of installation and commissioning. In this talk I will briefly review the spectrometer's design capabilities, describe recent progress in its installation and commissioning, and discuss plans for its initial experimental program. This work was supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Council of Canada. TRIUMF receives federal funds through a contribution agreement with the National Research Council of Canada.

The History of Planetary Exploration Using Mass Spectrometers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mahaffy, Paul R.

2012-01-01

At the Planetary Probe Workshop Dr. Paul Mahaffy will give a tutorial on the history of planetary exploration using mass spectrometers. He will give an introduction to the problems and solutions that arise in making in situ measurements at planetary targets using this instrument class.

An in-situ K-Ar isochron dating method for planetary landers using a spot-by-spot laser-ablation technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cho, Yuichiro; Sugita, Seiji; Miura, Yayoi N.; Okazaki, Ryuji; Iwata, Naoyoshi; Morota, Tomokatsu; Kameda, Shingo

2016-09-01

Age is essential information for interpreting the geologic record on planetary surfaces. Although crater counting has been widely used to estimate the planetary surface ages, crater chronology in the inner solar system is largely built on radiometric age data from limited sites on the Moon. This has resulted in major uncertainty in planetary chronology. Because opportunities for sample-return missions are limited, in-situ geochronology measurements from one-way lander/rover missions are extremely valuable. Here we developed an in-situ isochron-based dating method using the K-Ar system, with K and Ar in a single rock sample extracted locally by laser ablation and measured using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) and a quadrupole mass spectrometer (QMS), respectively. We built an experimental system combining flight-equivalent instruments and measured K-Ar ages for mineral samples with known ages (~1.8 Ga) and K contents (1-8 wt%); we achieved precision of 20% except for a mineral with low mechanical strength. Furthermore, validation measurements with two natural rocks (gneiss slabs) obtained K-Ar isochron ages and initial 40Ar consistent with known values for both cases. This result supports that our LIBS-MS approach can derive both isochron ages and contributions of non-in situ radiogenic 40Ar from natural rocks. Error assessments suggest that the absolute ages of key geologic events including the Noachian/Hesperian- and the Hesperian/Amazonian-transition can be dated with 10-20% errors for a rock containing ~1 wt% K2O, greatly reducing the uncertainty of current crater chronology models on Mars.

Comparison of functional group selective ion-molecule reactions of trimethyl borate in different ion trap mass spectrometers

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Habicht, S C; Vinueza, Nelson R; Amundson, Lucas M

2011-02-01

We report here a comparison of the use of diagnostic ion–molecule reactions for the identification of oxygen-containing functional groups in Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance (FTICR) and linear quadrupole ion trap (LQIT) mass spectrometers. The ultimate goal of this research is to be able to identify functionalities in previously unknown analytes by using many different types of mass spectrometers. Previous work has focused on the reactions of various boron reagents with protonated oxygen-containing analytes in FTICR mass spectrometers. By using a LQIT modified to allow the introduction of neutral reagents into the helium buffer gas, this methodology has been successfully implementedmore » to this type of an ion trap instrument. The products obtained from the reactions of trimethyl borate (TMB) with various protonated analytes are compared for the two instruments. Finally, the ability to integrate these reactions into LC-MS experiments on the LQIT is demonstrated.« less

Ion Composition in Titan's Exosphere from the Cassini Plasma Spectrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Woodson, A.; Smith, H. T.; Johnson, R. E.

2013-12-01

A primary goal of the Cassini mission has been to characterize the complex interaction between Saturn's magnetosphere and Titan's ionosphere. To this end, the Cassini spacecraft carries two instruments-the Ion and Neutral Mass Spectrometer (INMS) and the Cassini Plasma Spectrometer (CAPS)-capable of energy- and mass-analysis. The Ion Mass Spectrometer (IMS), one of three instruments composing CAPS, is designed to characterize diffuse plasmas throughout the magnetosphere while the INMS is optimized for measurements within Titan's upper atmosphere. As such, mass-resolved ion compositions confirming a variety of hydrocarbons and nitriles have been extracted from INMS data for numerous Titan encounters. Similar analysis of IMS data, however, has largely been resolution-limited to the identification of 'light' and 'heavy' ion groups in the wake. Herein we present a technique for extracting Dalton-resolved ion compositions from IMS spectra acquired below ~5 Titan radii. The method is then applied to data from the T40 encounter and the resulting relative abundances compared with those derived from the INMS data for the same encounter.

Nuclear Structure Research at TRIUMF

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garrett, P. E.; Andreyev, A.; Austin, R. A. E.; Ball, G. C.; Bandyopadhyay, D.; Becker, J. A.; Boston, A. J.; Chakrawarthy, R. S.; Cline, D.; Cooper, R. J.; Churchman, R.; Cross, D.; Dashdorj, D.; Demand, G. A.; Dimmock, M. R.; Drake, T. E.; Finlay, P.; Gagon-Miosan, F.; Gallant, A. T.; Green, K. L.; Grint, A. N.; Grinyer, G. F.; Hackman, G.; Harkness, L. J.; Hayes, A. B.; Kanungo, R.; Kulp, W. D.; Leach, K. G.; Lee, G.; Leslie, J. R.; Martin, J.-P.; Mattoon, C.; Mills, W. J.; Morton, A. C.; Mythili, S.; Nelson, L.; Newman, O.; Nolan, P. J.; Padilla-Rodal, E.; Pearson, C. J.; Phillips, A. A.; Porter-Peden, M.; Ressler, J. J.; Roy, R.; Ruiz, C.; Savajols, H.; Sarazin, F.; Schumaker, M. A.; Scraggs, D. P.; Scraggs, H. C.; Strange, M. D.; Svensson, C. E.; Waddington, J. C.; Wan, J. M.; Whitbeck, A.; Williams, S. J.; Wong, J.; Wood, J. L.; Wu, C. Y.; Zganjar, E. F.

2007-04-01

The radioactive beam laboratory at TRIUMF is currently the highest power ISOL facility in the world. Taking advantage of the high-intensity beams, major programs in nuclear astrophysics, nuclear structure, and weak interaction studies have begun. The low-energy area, ISAC-I, is capable of delivering beams up to mass 30 at approx 1.7 MeV/u or 60 keV up to the mass of the primary target, whereas ISAC-II will ultimately provide beams up to mass 150 and approx 6.5 MeV/u. Major gamma -ray spectrometers for nuclear structure research consist of the 8pi spectrometer at ISAC-I, and the TIGRESS spectrometer now being constructed for ISAC-II. Results from recent experiments investigating the beta -decay of nuclei near N=90 and Coulomb excitation of 20,21Na are presented that highlight the capabilities of the spectrometers.

Ablative Rayleigh-Taylor and Richtmyer-Meshkov Instabilities in Laser-Accelerated Colliding Foils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aglitskiy, Y.; Metzler, N.; Karasik, M.; Serlin, V.; Weaver, J.; Obenschain, S. P.; Oh, J.; Schmitt, A. J.; Velikovich, A. L.; Zalesak, S. T.; Gardner, J. H.; Harding, E. C.

2008-11-01

In our experiments done on the Nike KrF laser, we study instability growth at shock-decelerated interfaces in planar colliding-foil experiments. We use streaked monochromatic (1.86 keV) x-ray face-on imaging diagnostics to measure the areal mass modulation growth caused by the instability. Higher x-ray energies up to 5.25 keV are used to follow the shock propagation as well as the 1D dynamics of the collision. While a laser-driven foil is accelerated towards the stationary low-density foam layer, an ablative RT instability develops. Having reached a high velocity, the foil hits the foam layer. The impact generates strong shocks in the plastic and in the foam. The reflected shock wave re-shocks the ablation front, its acceleration stops, and so does the observed RT growth. This is followed by areal mass oscillations due to the ablative RM instability and feedout mechanisms, of which the latter dominates.

Investigation of a pulsed electrothermal thruster system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burton, R. L.; Goldstein, S. A.; Hilko, B. K.; Tidman, D. A.; Winsor, N. K.

1984-01-01

The performance of an ablative wall Pulsed Electrothermal (PET) thruster is accurately characterized on a calibrated thrust stand, using polyethylene propellant. The thruster is tested for four configurations of capillary length and pulse length. The exhaust velocity is determined with twin time-of-flight photodiode stagnation probes, and the ablated mass is measured from the loss over ten shots. Based on the measured thrust impulse and the ablated mass, the specific impulse varies from 1000 to 1750 seconds. The thrust to power varies from .05 N/kW (quasi-steady mode) to .10 N/kW (unsteady mode). The thruster efficiency varies from .56 at 1000 seconds to .42 at 1750 seconds. A conceptual design is presented for a 40 kW PET propulsion system. The point design system performance is .62 system efficiency at 1000 seconds specific impulse. The system's reliability is enhanced by incorporating 20, 20 kW thruster modules which are fired in pairs. The thruster design is non-ablative, and uses water propellant, from a central storage tank, injected through the cathode.

Probing the Physics of Burning DT Capsules Using Gamma-ray Diagnostics

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hayes-Sterbenz, Anna Catherine; Hale, Gerald M.; Jungman, Gerard

2015-02-01

The Gamma Reaction History (GRH) diagnostic developed and lead by the Los Alamos National Laboratory GRH Team is used to determine the bang time and burn width of imploded inertial confinement fusion capsules at the National Ignition Facility. The GRH team is conceptualizing and designing a new Gamma-­to-Electron Magnetic Spectrometer (GEMS), that would be capable of an energy resolution ΔE/E~3-­5%. In this whitepaper we examine the physics that could be explored by the combination of these two gamma-ray diagnostics, with an emphasis on the sensitivity needed for measurements. The main areas that we consider are hydrodynamical mixing, ablator areal densitymore » and density profile, and temporal variations of the density of the cold fuel and the ablator during the DT burn of the capsule.« less

High mass resolution time of flight mass spectrometer for measuring products in heterogeneous catalysis in highly sensitive microreactors

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Andersen, T.; Jensen, R.; Christensen, M. K.

2012-07-15

We demonstrate a combined microreactor and time of flight system for testing and characterization of heterogeneous catalysts with high resolution mass spectrometry and high sensitivity. Catalyst testing is performed in silicon-based microreactors which have high sensitivity and fast thermal response. Gas analysis is performed with a time of flight mass spectrometer with a modified nude Bayard-Alpert ionization gauge as gas ionization source. The mass resolution of the time of flight mass spectrometer using the ion gauge as ionization source is estimated to m/{Delta}m > 2500. The system design is superior to conventional batch and flow reactors with accompanying product detectionmore » by quadrupole mass spectrometry or gas chromatography not only due to the high sensitivity, fast temperature response, high mass resolution, and fast acquisition time of mass spectra but it also allows wide mass range (0-5000 amu in the current configuration). As a demonstration of the system performance we present data from ammonia oxidation on a Pt thin film showing resolved spectra of OH and NH{sub 3}.« less

High mass resolution time of flight mass spectrometer for measuring products in heterogeneous catalysis in highly sensitive microreactors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andersen, T.; Jensen, R.; Christensen, M. K.; Pedersen, T.; Hansen, O.; Chorkendorff, I.

2012-07-01

We demonstrate a combined microreactor and time of flight system for testing and characterization of heterogeneous catalysts with high resolution mass spectrometry and high sensitivity. Catalyst testing is performed in silicon-based microreactors which have high sensitivity and fast thermal response. Gas analysis is performed with a time of flight mass spectrometer with a modified nude Bayard-Alpert ionization gauge as gas ionization source. The mass resolution of the time of flight mass spectrometer using the ion gauge as ionization source is estimated to m/Δm > 2500. The system design is superior to conventional batch and flow reactors with accompanying product detection by quadrupole mass spectrometry or gas chromatography not only due to the high sensitivity, fast temperature response, high mass resolution, and fast acquisition time of mass spectra but it also allows wide mass range (0-5000 amu in the current configuration). As a demonstration of the system performance we present data from ammonia oxidation on a Pt thin film showing resolved spectra of OH and NH3.

High mass resolution time of flight mass spectrometer for measuring products in heterogeneous catalysis in highly sensitive microreactors.

PubMed

Andersen, T; Jensen, R; Christensen, M K; Pedersen, T; Hansen, O; Chorkendorff, I

2012-07-01

We demonstrate a combined microreactor and time of flight system for testing and characterization of heterogeneous catalysts with high resolution mass spectrometry and high sensitivity. Catalyst testing is performed in silicon-based microreactors which have high sensitivity and fast thermal response. Gas analysis is performed with a time of flight mass spectrometer with a modified nude Bayard-Alpert ionization gauge as gas ionization source. The mass resolution of the time of flight mass spectrometer using the ion gauge as ionization source is estimated to m/Δm > 2500. The system design is superior to conventional batch and flow reactors with accompanying product detection by quadrupole mass spectrometry or gas chromatography not only due to the high sensitivity, fast temperature response, high mass resolution, and fast acquisition time of mass spectra but it also allows wide mass range (0-5000 amu in the current configuration). As a demonstration of the system performance we present data from ammonia oxidation on a Pt thin film showing resolved spectra of OH and NH(3).

Leak rate measurements for satellite subsystems and residual gas analysis during space environment tests. [thermal vacuum and solar simulation tests

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nuss, H. E.

1975-01-01

The measuring and evaluation procedure for the determination of leak rates of satellite subsystems with a quadrupole mass spectrometer, and the results of the residual gas analysis are described. The method selected for leak rate determination was placing the system into a vacuum chamber and furnishing the chamber with a mass spectrometer and calibrated leaks. The residual gas of a thermal vacuum test facility, in which the thermal balance test radiation input was simulated by a heated canister, was analyzed with the mass spectrometer in the atomic mass unit range up to 300 amu. In addition to the measurements during the space environment tests, mass spectrometric studies were performed with samples of spacecraft materials. The studies were carried out during tests for the projects HELIOS, AEROS B and SYMPHONIE.

High precision electric gate for time-of-flight ion mass spectrometers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sittler, Edward C. (Inventor)

2011-01-01

A time-of-flight mass spectrometer having a chamber with electrodes to generate an electric field in the chamber and electric gating for allowing ions with a predetermined mass and velocity into the electric field. The design uses a row of very thin parallel aligned wires that are pulsed in sequence so the ion can pass through the gap of two parallel plates, which are biased to prevent passage of the ion. This design by itself can provide a high mass resolution capability and a very precise start pulse for an ion mass spectrometer. Furthermore, the ion will only pass through the chamber if it is within a wire diameter of the first wire when it is pulsed and has the right speed so it is near all other wires when they are pulsed.

Frequency-scanning MALDI linear ion trap mass spectrometer for large biomolecular ion detection.

PubMed

Lu, I-Chung; Lin, Jung Lee; Lai, Szu-Hsueh; Chen, Chung-Hsuan

2011-11-01

This study presents the first report on the development of a matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) linear ion trap mass spectrometer for large biomolecular ion detection by frequency scan. We designed, installed, and tested this radio frequency (RF) scan linear ion trap mass spectrometer and its associated electronics to dramatically extend the mass region to be detected. The RF circuit can be adjusted from 300 to 10 kHz with a set of operation amplifiers. To trap the ions produced by MALDI, a high pressure of helium buffer gas was employed to quench extra kinetic energy of the heavy ions produced by MALDI. The successful detection of the singly charged secretory immunoglobulin A ions indicates that the detectable mass-to-charge ratio (m/z) of this system can reach ~385 000 or beyond.

Non-proximate mass spectrometry using a heated 1-m long PTFE tube and an air-tight APCI ion source.

PubMed

Usmanov, Dilshadbek T; Hiraoka, Kenzo; Wada, Hiroshi; Matsumura, Masaya; Sanada-Morimura, Sachiyo; Nonami, Hiroshi; Yamabe, Shinichi

2017-06-22

Direct and rapid trace-level gas analysis is highly needed in various fields such as safety and security, quality control, food analysis, and forensic medicine. In many cases, the real samples are bulky and are not accessible to the space-limited ion source of the mass spectrometer. In order to circumvent this problem, we developed an airtight atmospheric-pressure chemical ionization (APCI) ion source equipped with a flexible 1-m-long, 2-mm-i.d. PTFE sniffing tube. The ambient air bearing sample gas was sucked into the heated PTFE tube (130 °C) and was transported to the air-tight ion source without using any extra pumping system or a Venturi device. Analytes were ionized by an ac corona discharge located at 1.5 mm from the inlet of the mass spectrometer. By using the airtight ion source, all the ionized gas in the ion source was introduced into the vacuum of the mass spectrometer via only the evacuation of the mass spectrometer (1.6 l min -1 ). Sub-pg limits of detection were obtained for carbaryl and trinitrotoluene. Owing to its flexibility and high sensitivity, the sniffing tube coupled with a mass spectrometer can be used as the stethoscope for the high-sensitive gas analysis. The experimental results obtained for drugs, hydrogen peroxide and small alkanes were discussed by DFT calculations. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Spacelab energetic ion mass spectrometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Whalen, B. A.; Mcdiarmid, I. B.; Burrows, J. R.; Sharp, R. D.; Johnson, R. G.; Shelley, E. G.

1980-01-01

Basic design criteria are given for an ion mass spectrometer for use in studying magnetospheric ion populations. The proposed instrument is composed of an electrostatic analyzer followed by a magnetic spectrometer and simultaneously measures the energy per unit and mass per unit charge of the ion species. An electromagnet is used for momentum analysis to extend the operational energy range over a much wider domain than is possible with the permanent magnets used in previous flights. The energetic ion source regions, ion energization mechanisms, field line tracing, coordinated investigations, and orbit considerations are discussed and operations of the momentum analyzer and of the electrostatic energy analyzer are examined.

AMS implications of charge-changing during acceleration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Knies, D. L.; Grabowski, K. S.; Cetina, C.; Demoranville, L. T.; Dougherty, M. R.; Mignerey, A. C.; Taylor, C. L.

2007-08-01

The NRL Accelerator Mass Spectrometer facility was recently reconfigured to incorporate a modified Cameca IMS 6f Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometer as a high-performance ion source. The NRL accelerator facility supplants the mass spectrometer portion of the IMS 6f instrument. As part of the initial testing of the combined instrument, charge-state scans were performed under various conditions. These provided the basis for studying the effects of terminal gas pressure on the process of charge-changing during acceleration. A combined system of transmission-micro-channel plate and energy detector was found to remove ghost beams produced from Pd charge-changing events in the accelerator tube.

Systems, methods, and apparatus of a low conductance silicon micro-leak for mass spectrometer inlet

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harpold, Dan N. (Inventor); Niemann, Hasso B. (Inventor); Jamieson, Brian G. (Inventor); Lynch, Bernard A. (Inventor)

2011-01-01

Systems, methods and apparatus are provided through which in some embodiments a mass spectrometer micro-leak includes a number of channels fabricated by semiconductor processing tools and that includes a number of inlet holes that provide access to the channels.

Systems, Methods, and Apparatus of a Low Conductance Silicon Micro-Leak for Mass Spectrometer Inlet

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harpold, Dan N. (Inventor); Niemann, Hasso B. (Inventor); Jamieson, Brian G. (Inventor); Lynch, Bernard A. (Inventor)

2013-01-01

Systems, methods and apparatus are provided through which in some embodiments a mass spectrometer micro-leak includes a number of channels fabricated by semiconductor processing tools and that includes a number of inlet holes that provide access to the channels.

Trace Gas Monitoring

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1976-01-01

Space technology is contributing to air pollution control primarily through improved detectors and analysis methods. Miniaturized mass spectrometer is under development to monitor vinyl chloride and other hydrocarbon contaminants in an airborne laboratory. Miniaturized mass spectrometer can be used to protect personnel in naval and medical operations as well as aboard aircraft.

Development of lightweight ceramic ablators and arc-jet test results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tran, Huy K.

1994-01-01

Lightweight ceramic ablators (LCA's) were recently developed at Ames to investigate the use of low density fibrous substrates and organic resins as high temperature, high strength ablative heat shields. Unlike the traditional ablators, LCA's use porous ceramic/carbon fiber matrices as substrates for structural support, and polymeric resins as fillers. Several substrates and resins were selected for the initial studies, and the best performing candidates were further characterized. Three arcjet tests were conducted to determine the LCA's thermal performance and ablation characteristics in a high enthalpy, hypersonic flow environment. Mass loss and recession measurements were obtained for each sample at post test, and the recession rates were determined from high speed motion films. Surface temperatures were also obtained from optical pyrometers.

Microfluidic chip for peptide analysis with an integrated HPLC column, sample enrichment column, and nanoelectrospray tip.

PubMed

Yin, Hongfeng; Killeen, Kevin; Brennen, Reid; Sobek, Dan; Werlich, Mark; van de Goor, Tom

2005-01-15

Current nano-LC/MS systems require the use of an enrichment column, a separation column, a nanospray tip, and the fittings needed to connect these parts together. In this paper, we present a microfabricated approach to nano-LC, which integrates these components on a single LC chip, eliminating the need for conventional LC connections. The chip was fabricated by laminating polyimide films with laser-ablated channels, ports, and frit structures. The enrichment and separation columns were packed using conventional reversed-phase chromatography particles. A face-seal rotary valve provided a means for switching between sample loading and separation configurations with minimum dead and delay volumes while allowing high-pressure operation. The LC chip and valve assembly were mounted within a custom electrospray source on an ion-trap mass spectrometer. The overall system performance was demonstrated through reversed-phase gradient separations of tryptic protein digests at flow rates between 100 and 400 nL/min. Microfluidic integration of the nano-LC components enabled separations with subfemtomole detection sensitivity, minimal carryover, and robust and stable electrospray throughout the LC solvent gradient.

Mass Spectral Investigations on Toxins. 7. Detection and Accurate Quantitation of Picogram Quantities of Macrocyclic Trichothecenes in Brazilian Plant Samples by Direct Chemical Ionization-Mass Spectrometer/Mass Spectrometer Techniques

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-09-01

trichothecenes are naturally occurring di. and triesters of unsubstituted and substituted verrucarols. 1 -" The diesters are termed as roridins, satratoxins, and...Satratoxins produced M- ions very efficiently despite the nature of the CI reagent gases.’ 6 The protonated molecules of satratoxins formed under these

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Huo, Ya Ruth, E-mail: ruth.huo@gmail.com; Pillai, Krishna, E-mail: panthera6444@yahoo.com.au; Akhter, Javed, E-mail: s8603151@unsw.edu.au

BackgroundThe dual-electrode bipolar-RFA (B-RFA) is increasingly used to ablate large liver tumours (3–7 cm). However, the challenging aspect of B-RFA is the placement of the two electrodes around the tumour. Realignment often requires the electrodes to be extracted and reinserted.AimThe aim of this study is to examine “Edgeboost”, a novel technique to increase the lateral ablation dimension without requiring any realignment of the electrodes.Methods and MaterialsAn egg-white model and an ex vivo calf liver model were used compare the standard bipolar mode ablation to Edgeboost-1 (reaching full impedance in bipolar mode initially, then cycling in unipolar mode between left and rightmore » probes) and Edgeboost-2 (similar to Edgeboost-1 but not reaching full impedance initially in bipolar mode in order to minimize charring and, thus, to increase total ablation time).ResultsA significantly larger outer lateral ablation dimension to the probe was achieved with Edgeboost-1 compared to the standard method in the liver model (1.14 cm, SD: 0.16 vs. 0.44 cm, SD: 0.24, p = 0.04). Edgeboost-2 achieved the largest outer lateral ablation dimension of 1.75 cm (SD: 0.35). A similar association was seen in the egg model. Edgeboost-2 almost doubled the mass ablated with standard bipolar alone (mass ratio: 1:1.94 in egg white and 1:1.84 in liver).ConclusionThis study demonstrates that the novel “Edgeboost” technique can increase the outer lateral ablation dimension without requiring the two inserted electrodes to be reinserted. This would be beneficial for interventionists who use the dual B-RFA.« less

Percutaneous microwave ablation of renal cell carcinoma using a high power microwave system: focus upon safety and efficacy.

PubMed

Filippiadis, D K; Gkizas, C; Chrysofos, M; Siatelis, A; Velonakis, G; Alexopoulou, E; Kelekis, A; Brountzos, E; Kelekis, N

2017-12-04

Percutaneous ablation is an expanding, minimally invasive approach for small- to medium-sized renal masses. The purpose of this study is to review safety, and mid-term efficacy of percutaneous microwave ablation (MWA) for Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) treatment using a high power microwave system. Institutional database research identified 50 consecutive patients with a single lesion resembling renal cell carcinoma in CT and MRI who underwent percutaneous microwave ablation using a high power microwave system. All patients underwent biopsy on the same session with ablation using an 18G semi-automatic soft tissue biopsy needle. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging was used for post-ablation follow-up. Patient and tumour characteristics, microwave technique, complications and pattern of recurrence were evaluated. Mean patient age was 74 years (male-female: 31-19). Average lesion size was 3.1 cm (range 2.0-4.3 cm). Biopsy results report RCC (n = 48), inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour (n = 1), and non-diagnostic sample (n = 1). The 3-year overall survival was 95.8% (46/48). Two patients died during the 3-year follow-up period due to causes unrelated to the MW ablation and to the RCC. Minor complications including haematomas requiring nothing but observation occurred at 4% (2/50) of the cases. Local recurrence of 6.25% (3/48) was observed with 2/3 cases being re-treated achieving a total clinical success of 97.9% (47/48 lesions). Percutaneous microwave ablation of RCC using a high power microwave system is a safe and efficacious technique for the treatment of small- to medium-sized renal masses.

Isolating and quantifying cross-beam energy transfer in direct-drive implosions on OMEGA and the National Ignition Facility

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Davis, A. K., E-mail: adavi@lle.rochester.edu; Cao, D.; Michel, D. T.

The angularly resolved mass ablation rates and ablation-front trajectories for Si-coated CH targets were measured in direct-drive inertial confinement fusion experiments to quantify cross-beam energy transfer (CBET) while constraining the hydrodynamic coupling. A polar-direct-drive laser configuration, where the equatorial laser beams were dropped and the polar beams were repointed from a symmetric direct-drive configuration, was used to limit CBET at the pole while allowing it to persist at the equator. The combination of low- and high-CBET conditions observed in the same implosion allowed for the effects of CBET on the ablation rate and ablation pressure to be determined. Hydrodynamic simulationsmore » performed without CBET agreed with the measured ablation rate and ablation-front trajectory at the pole of the target, confirming that the CBET effects on the pole are small. The simulated mass ablation rates and ablation-front trajectories were in excellent agreement with the measurements at all angles when a CBET model based on Randall's equations [C. J. Randall et al., Phys. Fluids 24, 1474 (1981)] was included into the simulations with a multiplier on the CBET gain factor. These measurements were performed on OMEGA and at the National Ignition Facility to access a wide range of plasma conditions, laser intensities, and laser beam geometries. The presence of the CBET gain multiplier required to match the data in all of the configurations tested suggests that additional physics effects, such as intensity variations caused by diffraction, polarization effects, or shortcomings of extending the 1-D Randall model to 3-D, should be explored to explain the differences in observed and predicted drive.« less

Isolating and quantifying cross-beam energy transfer in direct-drive implosions on OMEGA and the National Ignition Facility

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Davis, A. K.; Cao, D.; Michel, D. T.

The angularly-resolved mass ablation rates and ablation front trajectories for Si-coated CH targets were measured in direct-drive inertial confinement fusion experiments to quantify crossbeam energy transfer (CBET) while constraining the hydrodynamic coupling. A polar-direct-drive laser configuration was used, where the equatorial laser beams were dropped from a symmetric direct-drive configuration to suppress CBET at the pole, while allowing it to persist at the equator. The combination of low- and high-CBET conditions in the same implosion allowed the effects of CBET on the ablation rate and ablation pressure to be decoupled from the other physics effects that influence laser-coupling. Hydrodynamic simulationsmore » performed without CBET reproduced the measured ablation rate and ablation front trajectory at the pole of the target, verifying that the other laser-coupling physics effects are well-modeled when CBET effects are negligible. The simulated mass ablation rates and ablation front trajectories were in excellent agreement with the measurements at all angles when a CBET model based on Randall’s equations [C. J. Randall et al., Phys. Fluids 24, 1474 (1981)] was included into the simulations with an optimized multiplier on the CBET gain factor. These measurements were performed on both OMEGA and the National Ignition Facility to access a wide range of plasma conditions, laser intensities, and laser beam geometries. Furthermore, the presence of the CBET gain multiplier required to match the data in all of the configurations tested suggests that additional physics effects, such as intensity variations due to diffraction, shortcomings of extending the 1-D Randall model to 3-D, or polarization effects, should be explored to explain the differences in observed and predicted drive.« less

Isolating and quantifying cross-beam energy transfer in direct-drive implosions on OMEGA and the National Ignition Facility

DOE PAGES

Davis, A. K.; Cao, D.; Michel, D. T.; ...

2016-04-20

The angularly-resolved mass ablation rates and ablation front trajectories for Si-coated CH targets were measured in direct-drive inertial confinement fusion experiments to quantify crossbeam energy transfer (CBET) while constraining the hydrodynamic coupling. A polar-direct-drive laser configuration was used, where the equatorial laser beams were dropped from a symmetric direct-drive configuration to suppress CBET at the pole, while allowing it to persist at the equator. The combination of low- and high-CBET conditions in the same implosion allowed the effects of CBET on the ablation rate and ablation pressure to be decoupled from the other physics effects that influence laser-coupling. Hydrodynamic simulationsmore » performed without CBET reproduced the measured ablation rate and ablation front trajectory at the pole of the target, verifying that the other laser-coupling physics effects are well-modeled when CBET effects are negligible. The simulated mass ablation rates and ablation front trajectories were in excellent agreement with the measurements at all angles when a CBET model based on Randall’s equations [C. J. Randall et al., Phys. Fluids 24, 1474 (1981)] was included into the simulations with an optimized multiplier on the CBET gain factor. These measurements were performed on both OMEGA and the National Ignition Facility to access a wide range of plasma conditions, laser intensities, and laser beam geometries. Furthermore, the presence of the CBET gain multiplier required to match the data in all of the configurations tested suggests that additional physics effects, such as intensity variations due to diffraction, shortcomings of extending the 1-D Randall model to 3-D, or polarization effects, should be explored to explain the differences in observed and predicted drive.« less

FY16 Safeguards Technology Cart-Portable Mass Spectrometer Project Final Report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Thompson, Cyril V.; Whitten, William B.

The Oak Ridge National Laboratory project for the Next Generation Safeguards Initiative Safeguards Technology Development Subprogram has been involved in the development of a cart portable mass spectrometer based on a Thermo ITQ ion trap mass spectrometer (referred to simply as the ITQ) for the field analysis of 235U/238U ratios in UF6. A recent discovery of the project was that combining CO2 with UF6 and introducing the mixture to the mass spectrometer (MS) appeared to increase the ionization efficiency and, thus, reduce the amount of UF6 needed for an analysis while also reducing the corrosive effects of the sample. However,more » initial experimentation indicated that mixing parameters should be closely controlled to ensure reproducible results. To this end, a sample manifold (SM) that would ensure the precise mixing of UF6 and CO2 was designed and constructed. A number of experiments were outlined and conducted to determine optimum MS and SM conditions which would provide the most stable isotope ratio analysis. The principal objective of the project was to provide a retrofit ITQ mass spectrometer operating with a SM capable of achieving a variation in precision of less than 1% over 1 hour of sampling. This goal was achieved by project end with a variation in precision of 0.5 to 0.8% over 1 hour of sampling.« less

Application of ion-induced nucleation mass spectrometry in the analysis of trace gases evolved from a polyimide film during the thermal curing stages

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, A. C.

1982-01-01

Trace gases evolved from a polyimide film during its thermal curing stages have been studied using ion-induced nucleation mass spectrometry. The technique involved exposing the test gas sample to a low energy beta source and recording the masses of the ion-induced molecular clusters formed in the reaction chamber. On the basis of the experimentally observed molecular cluster spectra, it has been concluded that the dominant trace component had a molecular weight of 87 atomic mass units. This component has been identified as a molecule of dimethylacetamide (DMAC) which had been used as a solvent in the preparation of the test polyimide specimen. This identification has been further confirmed by comparing the spectra of the test gas sample and the DMAC calibration sample obtained with a conventional mass spectrometer. The advantages of the ion-induced nucleation mass spectrometer versus the conventional mass spectrometer are discussed.

Comparison of laser ablation and dried solution aerosol as sampling systems in inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Coedo, A G; Padilla, I; Dorado, M T

2004-12-01

This paper describes a study designed to determine the possibility of using a dried aerosol solution for calibration in laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS). The relative sensitivities of tested materials mobilized by laser ablation and by aqueous nebulization were established, and the experimentally determined relative sensitivity factors (RSFs) were used in conjunction with aqueous calibration for the analysis of solid steel samples. To such a purpose a set of CRM carbon steel samples (SS-451/1 to SS-460/1) were sampled into an ICP-MS instrument by solution nebulization using a microconcentric nebulizer with membrane desolvating (D-MCN) and by laser ablation (LA). Both systems were applied with the same ICP-MS operating parameters and the analyte signals were compared. The RSF (desolvated aerosol response/ablated solid response) values were close to 1 for the analytes Cr, Ni, Co, V, and W, about 1.3 for Mo, and 1.7 for As, P, and Mn. Complementary tests were carried out using CRM SS-455/1 as a solid standard for one-point calibration, applying LAMTRACE software for data reduction and quantification. The analytical results are in good agreement with the certified values in all cases, showing that the applicability of dried aerosol solutions is a good alternative calibration system for laser ablation sampling.

A cometary ion mass spectrometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shelley, E. G.; Simpson, D. A.

1984-01-01

The development of flight suitable analyzer units for that part of the GIOTTO Ion Mass Spectrometer (IMS) experiment designated the High Energy Range Spectrometer (HERS) is discussed. Topics covered include: design of the total ion-optical system for the HERS analyzer; the preparation of the design of analyzing magnet; the evaluation of microchannel plate detectors and associated two-dimensional anode arrays; and the fabrication and evaluation of two flight-suitable units of the complete ion-optical analyzer system including two-dimensional imaging detectors and associated image encoding electronics.

Femtosecond Laser Fabricated Ag@Au and Cu@Au Alloy Nanoparticles for Surface Enhaned Raman Spectrosocpy Based Trace Explosives Detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sree Satya Bharati, Moram; Byram, Chandu; Soma, Venugopal R.

2018-03-01

Herein we present results from our detailed studies on the fabrication of Ag@Au and Cu@Au alloy nanoparticles (NPs) using the femtosecond laser ablation in liquid technique. The NPs were obtained by ablating the pure Ag, Cu targets (bulk) in HAuCl4 (5 mM) solution. The absorption properties of the obtained NPs colloids were characterized using UV-Visible absorption spectrometer and their size, shape, and crystallinity were investigated using the XRD, FESEM and TEM techniques. The fabricated NPs were utilized for sensing of explosive molecules such as 2, 4, 6-trinitrophenol (PA), 2, 4-dinitrotoluene (DNT) and a common dye methylene blue (MB) using the surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) technique. The detection limit in terms of weight was as low as few nano-grams in the case of nitroaromatic explosive compounds (PA, DNT) and few picograms in the case of a common dye molecule (MB). Typical enhancement factors achieved were estimated to be 104, 105 and 107, respectively, for PA, DNT, and MB. The significance of the present work lies in exploring the performance of the prepared NPs being used as SERS substrates for explosives detection using a portable Raman instrument. Such capability enables one to carry the spectrometer to the point of interest in the field and evaluate any hazardous samples within a short period of time.

A Study on Various Meteoroid Disintegration Mechanisms as Observed from the Resolute Bay Incoherent Scatter Radar (RISR)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Malhotra, A.; Mathews, J. D.

2011-01-01

There has been much interest in the meteor physics community recently regarding the form that meteoroid mass flux arrives in the upper atmosphere. Of particular interest are the relative roles of simple ablation, differential ablation, and fragmentation in the meteoroid mass flux observed by the Incoherent Scatter Radars (ISR). We present here the first-ever statistical study showing the relative contribution of the above-mentioned three mechanisms. These are also one of the first meteor results from the newly-operational Resolute Bay ISR. These initial results emphasize that meteoroid disintegration into the upper atmosphere is a complex process in which all the three above-mentioned mechanisms play an important role though fragmentation seems to be the dominant mechanism. These results prove vital in studying how meteoroid mass is deposited in the upper atmosphere which has important implications to the aeronomy of the region and will also contribute in improving current meteoroid disintegration/ablation models.

The Influence of Ablation on Radiative Heating for Earth Entry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnston, Christopher O.; Gnoffo, Peter A.; Sutton, Kenneth

2008-01-01

Using the coupled ablation and radiation capability recently included in the LAURA flowfield solver, this paper investigates the influence of ablation on the shock-layer radiative heating for Earth entry. The extension of the HARA radiation model, which provides the radiation predictions in LAURA, to treat a gas consisting of the elements C, H, O, and N is discussed. It is shown that the absorption coefficient of air is increased with the introduction of the C and H elements. A simplified shock layer model is studied to show the impact of temperature, as well as the abundance of C and H, on the net absorption or emission from an ablation contaminated boundary layer. It is found that the ablation species reduce the radiative flux in the vacuum ultraviolet, through increased absorption, for all temperatures. However, in the infrared region of the spectrum, the ablation species increase the radiative flux, through strong emission, for temperatures above 3,000 K. Thus, depending on the temperature and abundance of ablation species, the contaminated boundary layer may either provide a net increase or decrease in the radiative flux reaching the wall. To assess the validity of the coupled ablation and radiation LAURA analysis, a previously analyzed Mars-return case (15.24 km/s), which contains significant ablation and radiation coupling, is studied. Exceptional agreement with previous viscous shock-layer results is obtained. A 40% decrease in the radiative flux is predicted for ablation rates equal to 20% of the free-stream mass flux. The Apollo 4 peak-heating case (10.24 km/s) is also studied. For ablation rates up to 3.4% of the free-stream mass flux, the radiative heating is reduced by up to 19%, while the convective heating is reduced by up to 87%. Good agreement with the Apollo 4 radiometer data is obtained by considering absorption in the radiometer cavity. For both the Mars return and the Apollo 4 cases, coupled radiation alone is found to reduce the radiative heating by 30 60% and the convective heating by less than 5%.

SUMS preliminary design and data analysis development. [shuttle upper atmosphere mass spectrometer experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hinson, E. W.

1981-01-01

The preliminary analysis and data analysis system development for the shuttle upper atmosphere mass spectrometer (SUMS) experiment are discussed. The SUMS experiment is designed to provide free stream atmospheric density, pressure, temperature, and mean molecular weight for the high altitude, high Mach number region.

Mass balance model parameter transferability on a tropical glacier

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gurgiser, Wolfgang; Mölg, Thomas; Nicholson, Lindsey; Kaser, Georg

2013-04-01

The mass balance and melt water production of glaciers is of particular interest in the Peruvian Andes where glacier melt water has markedly increased water supply during the pronounced dry seasons in recent decades. However, the melt water contribution from glaciers is projected to decrease with appreciable negative impacts on the local society within the coming decades. Understanding mass balance processes on tropical glaciers is a prerequisite for modeling present and future glacier runoff. As a first step towards this aim we applied a process-based surface mass balance model in order to calculate observed ablation at two stakes in the ablation zone of Shallap Glacier (4800 m a.s.l., 9°S) in the Cordillera Blanca, Peru. Under the tropical climate, the snow line migrates very frequently across most of the ablation zone all year round causing large temporal and spatial variations of glacier surface conditions and related ablation. Consequently, pronounced differences between the two chosen stakes and the two years were observed. Hourly records of temperature, humidity, wind speed, short wave incoming radiation, and precipitation are available from an automatic weather station (AWS) on the moraine near the glacier for the hydrological years 2006/07 and 2007/08 while stake readings are available at intervals of between 14 to 64 days. To optimize model parameters, we used 1000 model simulations in which the most sensitive model parameters were varied randomly within their physically meaningful ranges. The modeled surface height change was evaluated against the two stake locations in the lower ablation zone (SH11, 4760m) and in the upper ablation zone (SH22, 4816m), respectively. The optimal parameter set for each point achieved good model skill but if we transfer the best parameter combination from one stake site to the other stake site model errors increases significantly. The same happens if we optimize the model parameters for each year individually and transfer these combinations to the other year. We show that multi-site and multi-year analyses are crucial before extrapolating ablation modeling to larger glacier areas. So far tested surface albedo schemes and respective parameterizations can obviously not satisfyingly reproduce the dynamics of glacier surface conditions at our study site and new solutions to the problem have to be explored.

A survey of heavy ions in Titan's ionosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crary, Frank

2016-06-01

The Cassini Plasma Spectrometer (CAPS) has observed heavy positive ions, with masses up to approximately 300 amu, as well as negative ions with even higher masses. The abundance and density of these positive ions have been reported for selected encounters, especially during those where comparisons with Ion and Neutral Mass Spectrometer (INMS) data are possible. The present work presents a survey of all available encounters, showing the density of ions in various mass ranges and their spatial distribution. The influence of the broad mass distribution on ionospheric conductivity will also be discussed.

MASS SPECTROMETER

DOEpatents

White, F.A.

1960-08-23

A mass spectrometer is designed with a first adjustable magnetic field for resolving an ion beam into beams of selected masses, a second adjustable magnetic field for further resolving the ion beam from the first field into beams of selected masses, a thin foil disposed in the path of the beam between the first and second magnets to dissociate molecular ions incident thereon, an electrostatic field for further resolving the ion beam from the second field into beams of selected masses, and a detector disposed adjacent to the electrostatic field to receive the ion beam.

A specialized isotope mass spectrometer for noninvasive diagnostics of Helicobacter pylori infection in human beings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blashenkov, N. M.; Sheshenya, E. S.; Solov'ev, S. M.; Sachenko, V. D.; Gall, L. N.; Zarutskii, I. V.; Gall, N. R.

2013-05-01

A specialized isotope mass spectrometer for noninvasive diagnostics of Helicobacter pylori infection in human beings based on the carbon-13 isotope breath test has been designed and constructed. Important stages of the work included (i) calculating a low-aberration mass analyzer, (ii) manufacturing and testing special gas inlet system, and (iii) creating a small-size collector of ions. The proposed instrument ensures 13C/12C isotopic ratio measurement to within 1.7‰ (pro mille) accuracy, which corresponds to requirements for a diagnostic tool. Preliminary medical testing showed that the mass spectrometer is applicable to practical diagnostics. The instrument is also capable of measuring isotopic ratios of other light elements, including N, O, B (for BF2+ ions), Ar, Cl, and S.

Portable gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer

DOEpatents

Andresen, B.D.; Eckels, J.D.; Kimmons, J.F.; Myers, D.W.

1996-06-11

A gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer (GC-MS) is described for use as a field portable organic chemical analysis instrument. The GC-MS is designed to be contained in a standard size suitcase, weighs less than 70 pounds, and requires less than 600 watts of electrical power at peak power (all systems on). The GC-MS includes: a conduction heated, forced air cooled small bore capillary gas chromatograph, a small injector assembly, a self-contained ion/sorption pump vacuum system, a hydrogen supply, a dual computer system used to control the hardware and acquire spectrum data, and operational software used to control the pumping system and the gas chromatograph. This instrument incorporates a modified commercial quadrupole mass spectrometer to achieve the instrument sensitivity and mass resolution characteristic of laboratory bench top units. 4 figs.

Development of an Atmospheric Pressure Ionization Mass Spectrometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1998-01-01

A commercial atmospheric pressure ionization mass spectrometer (APIMS) was purchased from EXTREL Mass Spectrometry, Inc. (Pittsburgh, PA). Our research objectives were to adapt this instrument and develop techniques for real-time determinations of the concentrations of trace species in the atmosphere. The prototype instrument is capable of making high frequency measurements with no sample preconcentrations. Isotopically labeled standards are used as an internal standard to obtain high precision and to compensate for changes in instrument sensitivity and analyte losses in the sampling manifold as described by Bandy and coworkers. The prototype instrument is capable of being deployed on NASA C130, Electra, P3, and DC8 aircraft. After purchasing and taking delivery by June 1994, we assembled the mass spectrometer, data acquisition, and manifold flow control instrumentation in electronic racks and performed tests.

Pellet imaging techniques in the ASDEX tokamak

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wurden, G. A.; Büchl, K.; Hofmann, J.; Lang, R.; Loch, R.; Rudyj, A.; Sandmann, W.

1990-11-01

As part of a USDOE/ASDEX collaboration, a detailed examination of pellet ablation in ASDEX with a variety of diagnostics has allowed a better understanding of a number of features of hydrogen ice pellet ablation in a plasma. In particular, fast-gated photos with an intensified Xybion CCD video camera allow in situ velocity measurements of the pellet as it penetrates the plasma. With time resolution of typically 100 ns and exposures every 50 μs, the evolution of each pellet in a multipellet ASDEX tokamak plasma discharge can be followed. When the pellet cloud track has striations, the light intensity profile through the cloud is hollow (dark near the pellet), whereas at the beginning or near the end of the pellet trajectory the track is typically smooth (without striations) and has a gaussian-peaked light emission profile. New, single pellet Stark broadened Dα, Dβ, and Dγ spectra, obtained with a tangentially viewing scanning mirror/spectrometer with Reticon array readout, are consistent with cloud densities of 2×1017 cm-3 or higher in the regions of strongest light emission. A spatially resolved array of Dα detectors shows that the light variations during the pellet ablation are not caused solely by a modulation of the incoming energy flux as the pellet crosses rational q surfaces, but instead are a result of dynamic, nonstationary, ablation process.

Pellet imaging techniques in the ASDEX tokamak (abstract)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wurden, G. A.; Büchl, K.; Hofmann, J.; Lang, R.; Loch, R.; Rudyj, A.; Sandmann, W.

1990-10-01

As part of a USDOE/ASDEX collaboration, a detailed examination of pellet ablation in ASDEX with a variety of diagnostics has allowed a better understanding of a number of features of hydrogen ice pellet ablation in a plasma. In particular, fast-gated photos with an intensified Xybion CCD video camera allow in situ velocity measurements of the pellet as it penetrates the plasma. With time resolution of typically 100 ns and exposures every 50 μs, the evolution of each pellet in a multipellet ASDEX tokamak plasma discharge can be followed. When the pellet cloud track has striations, the light intensity profile through the cloud is hollow (dark near the pellet), whereas at the beginning or near the end of the pellet trajectory the track is typically smooth (without striations) and has a gaussian-peaked light emission profile. New, single pellet Stark broadened Dα, Dβ, and Dγ spectra, obtained with a tangentially viewing scanning mirror/spectrometer with Reticon array readout, are consistent with cloud densities of 2×1017 cm-3 or higher in the regions of strongest light emission. A spatially resolved array of Dα detectors shows that the light variations during the pellet ablation are not caused solely by a modulation of the incoming energy flux as the pellet crosses rational q surfaces, but instead are a result of dynamic, nonstationary, ablation process.

Tungsten carbide precursors as an example for influence of a binder on the particle formation in the nanosecond laser ablation of powdered materials.

PubMed

Holá, Markéta; Mikuska, Pavel; Hanzlíková, Renáta; Kaiser, Jozef; Kanický, Viktor

2010-03-15

A study of LA-ICP-MS analysis of pressed powdered tungsten carbide precursors was performed to show the advantages and problems of nanosecond laser ablation of matrix-unified samples. Five samples with different compositions were pressed into pellets both with silver powder as a binder serving to keep the matrix unified, and without any binder. The laser ablation was performed by nanosecond Nd:YAG laser working at 213 nm. The particle formation during ablation of both sets of pellets was studied using an optical aerosol spectrometer allowing the measurement of particle concentration in two size ranges (10-250 nm and 0.25-17 microm) and particle size distribution in the range of 0.25-17 microm. Additionally, the structure of the laser-generated particles was studied after their collection on a filter using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and the particle chemical composition was determined by an energy dispersive X-ray spectroscope (EDS). The matrix effect was proved to be reduced using the same silver powdered binder for pellet preparation in the case of the laser ablation of powdered materials. The LA-ICP-MS signal dependence on the element content present in the material showed an improved correlation for Co, Ti, Ta and Nb of the matrix-unified samples compared to the non-matrix-unified pellets. In the case of W, the ICP-MS signal of matrix-unified pellets was influenced by the changes in the particle formation. Copyright (c) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Energy and Mass Balance At Gran Campo Nevado, Patagonia, Chile

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schneider, C.; Kilian, R.; Casassa, G.

The Gran Campo Nevado (GCN) Ice Cap on Peninsula Muñoz Gamero, Chile, is lo- cated in the southernmost part of the Patagonian Andes at 53S. It comprises an ice cap and numerous outlet glaciers which mostly end in proglacial lakes at sea level. The total ice covered area sums up to approximately 250 km2. GCN forms the only major ice body between the Southern Patagonian Icefield and the Street of Magallan. Its almost unique location in the zone of the all-year westerlies makes it a region of key interest in terms of glacier and climate change studies of the westwind zone of the Southern Hemisphere. Mean annual temperature of approximately +5C at sea level and high precipitation of about 8.000 mm per year lead to an extreme turn-over of ice mass from the accumulation area of the GCN Ice Cap to the ablation areas of the outlet glaciers. Since October 1999 an automated weather station (AWS) is run continuously in the area at Bahia Bahamondes for monitoring climate parameters. From February to April 2000 an additional AWS was operated on Glaciar Lengua a small outlet glacier of GCN to the north-west. Ablation has been measured at stakes during the same pe- riod. The aim of this study, was to obtain point energy and mass balance on Glaciar Lengua. The work was conducted as part of the international and interdisciplinary working group SGran Campo NevadoT and supported by the German Research Foun- & cedil;dation (DFG). Energy balance was calculated using the bulk approach formulas and calibrated to the measured ablation. It turns out, that sensible heat transfer is the major contribution to the energy balance. Since high cloud cover rates prevail, air tempera- ture is the key factor for the energy balance of the glacier. Despite high rain fall rates, energy input from rain fall is of only minor importance to the overall energy balance. From the energy balance computed, it was possible to derive summer-time degree-day factors for Glaciar Lengua. With data from the nearby AWS at Bahia Bahamondes we computed summer ablation for the summer seasons of 1999/2000 and 2000/2001. Ablation at 45o m a.s.l. sums up to about 7 m in 1999/2000 and to 5.5 m in 2000/2001. This is in excellent accordance (+/-2%) with measurements at ablation stakes that have been drilled into the glacier on its ablation area. Surface velocity measured from the displacement of the ablation stakes is estimated to 62 m per year. A RADAR survey with ice penetrating RADAR conducted on the ablation area of Glaciar Lengua during the austral summer 2000/2001 reveals glacier depths between 120 m and 200 m ap- 1 proximately. The data sampled will allow to set up a model for mass flow and ablation at a cross-section of Glaciar Lengua at 450 m a.s.l. Glaciar Lengua has no accumu- lation area itself but obtains all of its ice mass through icefall from the heights of the GCN Ice Cap. Therefore, this model will be of fundamental importance to understand the glacial regime of the entire ice cap. 2

Composition measurements of the topside ionosphere using a magnetic mass spectrometer, ion mass spectrometer on ISIS-2 spacecraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hoffman, J. H.

1975-01-01

The ion mass spectrometer (IMS) on the ISIS-II satellite is described; it measures the composition and distribution of positive ions in the earth's ionosphere in the mass range of 1 to 64 atomic mass units. Significant data were received which show a wide variation in ion composition at night near the equator and in the daytime poleward of the plasmapause. It was found that these data enable further study of the polar wind and that the experiment produced timely data during the August, 1972 magnetic storm to show the development of a unique ionosphere above the plasmapause during the period of the storm. The scientific objectives and results of the experiment, the technical description of the instrument, a bibliography with sample papers attached, and a summary of recommendations for further study are presented.

Isobar Separation in a Multiple-Reflection Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometer by Mass-Selective Re-Trapping.

PubMed

Dickel, Timo; Plaß, Wolfgang R; Lippert, Wayne; Lang, Johannes; Yavor, Mikhail I; Geissel, Hans; Scheidenberger, Christoph

2017-06-01

A novel method for (ultra-)high-resolution spatial mass separation in time-of-flight mass spectrometers is presented. Ions are injected into a time-of-flight analyzer from a radio frequency (rf) trap, dispersed in time-of-flight according to their mass-to-charge ratios and then re-trapped dynamically in the same rf trap. This re-trapping technique is highly mass-selective and after sufficiently long flight times can provide even isobaric separation. A theoretical treatment of the method is presented and the conditions for optimum performance of the method are derived. The method has been implemented in a multiple-reflection time-of-flight mass spectrometer and mass separation powers (FWHM) in excess of 70,000, and re-trapping efficiencies of up to 35% have been obtained for the protonated molecular ion of caffeine. The isobars glutamine and lysine (relative mass difference of 1/4000) have been separated after a flight time of 0.2 ms only. Higher mass separation powers can be achieved using longer flight times. The method will have important applications, including isobar separation in nuclear physics and (ultra-)high-resolution precursor ion selection in multiple-stage tandem mass spectrometry. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.

Isobar Separation in a Multiple-Reflection Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometer by Mass-Selective Re-Trapping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dickel, Timo; Plaß, Wolfgang R.; Lippert, Wayne; Lang, Johannes; Yavor, Mikhail I.; Geissel, Hans; Scheidenberger, Christoph

2017-06-01

A novel method for (ultra-)high-resolution spatial mass separation in time-of-flight mass spectrometers is presented. Ions are injected into a time-of-flight analyzer from a radio frequency (rf) trap, dispersed in time-of-flight according to their mass-to-charge ratios and then re-trapped dynamically in the same rf trap. This re-trapping technique is highly mass-selective and after sufficiently long flight times can provide even isobaric separation. A theoretical treatment of the method is presented and the conditions for optimum performance of the method are derived. The method has been implemented in a multiple-reflection time-of-flight mass spectrometer and mass separation powers (FWHM) in excess of 70,000, and re-trapping efficiencies of up to 35% have been obtained for the protonated molecular ion of caffeine. The isobars glutamine and lysine (relative mass difference of 1/4000) have been separated after a flight time of 0.2 ms only. Higher mass separation powers can be achieved using longer flight times. The method will have important applications, including isobar separation in nuclear physics and (ultra-)high-resolution precursor ion selection in multiple-stage tandem mass spectrometry. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Three-dimensional single-mode nonlinear ablative Rayleigh-Taylor instability

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yan, R.; Aluie, H.; Laboratory for Laser Energetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York 14627

The nonlinear evolution of the single-mode ablative Rayleigh-Taylor instability is studied in three dimensions. As the mode wavelength approaches the cutoff of the linear spectrum (short-wavelength modes), it is found that the three-dimensional (3D) terminal bubble velocity greatly exceeds both the two-dimensional (2D) value and the classical 3D bubble velocity. Unlike in 2D, the 3D short-wavelength bubble velocity does not saturate. The growing 3D bubble acceleration is driven by the unbounded accumulation of vorticity inside the bubble. The vorticity is transferred by mass ablation from the Rayleigh-Taylor spikes to the ablated plasma filling the bubble volume.

PHOTONICS AND NANOTECHNOLOGY Pulsed laser ablation of binary semiconductors: mechanisms of vaporisation and cluster formation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bulgakov, A. V.; Evtushenko, A. B.; Shukhov, Yu G.; Ozerov, I.; Marin, W.

2010-12-01

Formation of small clusters during pulsed ablation of two binary semiconductors, zinc oxide and indium phosphide, in vacuum by UV, visible, and IR laser radiation is comparatively studied. The irradiation conditions favourable for generation of neutral and charged ZnnOm and InnPm clusters of different stoichiometry in the ablation products are found. The size and composition of the clusters, their expansion dynamics and reactivity are analysed by time-of-flight mass spectrometry. A particular attention is paid to the mechanisms of ZnO and InP ablation as a function of laser fluence, with the use of different ablation models. It is established that ZnO evapourates congruently in a wide range of irradiation conditions, while InP ablation leads to enrichment of the target surface with indium. It is shown that this radically different character of semiconductor ablation determines the composition of the nanostructures formed: zinc oxide clusters are mainly stoichiometric, whereas InnPm particles are significantly enriched with indium.

Laser ablation efficiency during the production of Ag nanoparticles in ethanol at a low pulse repetition rate (1-10 Hz)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Valverde-Alva, M. A.; García-Fernández, T.; Esparza-Alegría, E.; Villagrán-Muniz, M.; Sánchez-Aké, C.; Castañeda-Guzmán, R.; de la Mora, M. B.; Márquez-Herrera, C. E.; Sánchez Llamazares, J. L.

2016-10-01

We studied the effect of the repetition rate of laser pulses (RRLP) in the range from 1-10 Hz in the production of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) by laser ablation in ethanol. Laser pulses with a duration of 7 ns, a wavelength of 1064 nm and an energy of 60 mJ were used to ablate a 99.99% pure silver target immersed in 10 ml of ethanol. Transmittance analysis and atomic absorption spectroscopy were used to study the silver concentration in the colloidal solutions. The ablation process was studied by measuring the transmission of the laser pulses through the colloid. It is shown that for a fixed number of laser pulses (NLP) the ablation efficiency, in terms of the ablated silver mass per laser pulse, increases with the RRLP. This result contradicts what had previously been established in the literature.

Gas-phase ion chemistry and organic chemistry-the story of a hybrid six sector mass spectrometer--the "AutoSpec 6F".

PubMed

Gerbaux, Pascal; Lamote, Luc; Van Haverbeke, Yves; Flammang, Robert; Brown, Jeffrey M

2012-01-01

The AutoSpec 6F mass spectrometer is a large, floor standing instrument comprising a pair of commercial EBE geometry (AutoSpec) mass spectrometers coupled in series to provide an hybrid EBE-EBE configuration, (E and B being respectively electrostatic and magnetic sectors.) It was designed in close collaboration between Professor R. Flammang and VG Analytical in Manchester, UK. It was equipped with five collision cells and allowed the recording of high energy CID (collision induced dissociation), MIKES (mass analyzed ion kinetic energy spectrometry) and NRMS (neutralization re-ionization mass spectrometry) data as well as consecutive MSn analyses. The field-free regions between sectors allowed the study of unimolecular decomposition products from long-lived metastable ions. The mass spectrometer became even more versatile when an RF-only quadrupole collision cell was installed between the second and the third electric sector. This allowed the study of associative ion/molecule reactions in the low kinetic energy regime. Bimolecular chemical reactions were performed inside the quadrupole cell when a neutral reagent was introduced and the reaction products were analyzed by high energy CID in the downstream sectors. This paper tells the history and summarizes the capabilities of this versatile instrument.

The new double energy-velocity spectrometer VERDI

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jansson, Kaj; Frégeau, Marc Olivier; Al-Adili, Ali; Göök, Alf; Gustavsson, Cecilia; Hambsch, Franz-Josef; Oberstedt, Stephan; Pomp, Stephan

2017-09-01

VERDI (VElocity foR Direct particle Identification) is a fission-fragment spectrometer recently put into operation at JRC-Geel. It allows measuring the kinetic energy and velocity of both fission fragments simultaneously. The velocity provides information about the pre-neutron mass of each fission fragment when isotropic prompt-neutron emission from the fragments is assumed. The kinetic energy, in combination with the velocity, provides the post-neutron mass. From the difference between pre- and post-neutron masses, the number of neutrons emitted by each fragment can be determined. Multiplicity as a function of fragment mass and total kinetic energy is one important ingredient, essential for understanding the sharing of excitation energy between fission fragments at scission, and may be used to benchmark nuclear de-excitation models. The VERDI spectrometer design is a compromise between geometrical efficiency and mass resolution. The spectrometer consists of an electron detector located close to the target and two arrays of silicon detectors, each located 50 cm away from the target. In the present configuration pre-neutron and post-neutron mass distributions are in good agreement with reference data were obtained. Our latest measurements performed with spontaneously fissioning 252Cf is presented along with the developed calibration procedure to obtain pulse height defect and plasma delay time corrections.

A Distonic Radical-Ion for Detection of Traces of Adventitious Molecular Oxygen (O2) in Collision Gases Used in Tandem Mass Spectrometers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jariwala, Freneil B.; Hibbs, John A.; Weisbecker, Carl S.; Ressler, John; Khade, Rahul L.; Zhang, Yong; Attygalle, Athula B.

2014-09-01

We describe a diagnostic ion that enables rapid semiquantitative evaluation of the degree of oxygen contamination in the collision gases used in tandem mass spectrometers. Upon collision-induced dissociation (CID), the m/z 359 positive ion generated from the analgesic etoricoxib undergoes a facile loss of a methyl sulfone radical [•SO2(CH3); 79-Da] to produce a distonic radical cation of m/z 280. The product-ion spectrum of this m/z 280 ion, recorded under low-energy activation on tandem-in-space QqQ or QqTof mass spectrometers using nitrogen from a generator as the collision gas, or tandem-in-time ion-trap (LCQ, LTQ) mass spectrometers using purified helium as the buffer gas, showed two unexpected peaks at m/z 312 and 295. This enigmatic m/z 312 ion, which bears a mass-to-charge ratio higher than that of the precursor ion, represented an addition of molecular oxygen (O2) to the precursor ion. The exceptional affinity of the m/z 280 radical cation towards oxygen was deployed to develop a method to determine the oxygen content in collision gases.

Cartilage ablation studies using mid-IR free electron laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Youn, Jong-In; Peavy, George M.; Venugopalan, Vasan

2005-04-01

The ablation rate of articular cartilage and fibrocartilage (meniscus), were quantified to examine wavelength and tissue-composition dependence of ablation efficiency for selected mid-infrared wavelengths. The wavelengths tested were 2.9 um (water dominant absorption), 6.1 (protein and water absorption) and 6.45 um (protein dominant absorption) generated by the Free Electron Laser (FEL) at Vanderbilt University. The measurement of tissue mass removal using a microbalance during laser ablation was conducted to determine the ablation rates of cartilage. The technique can be accurate over methods such as profilometer and histology sectioning where tissue surface and the crater morphology may be affected by tissue processing. The ablation efficiency was found to be dependent upon the wavelength. Both articular cartilage and meniscus (fibrocartilage) ablations at 6.1 um were more efficient than those at the other wavelengths evaluated. We observed the lowest ablation efficiency of both types of cartilage with the 6.45 um wavelength, possibly due to the reduction in water absorption at this wavelength in comparison to the other wavelengths that were evaluated.

Implementation of a Blowing Boundary Condition in the LAURA Code

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thompson, Richard a.; Gnoffo, Peter A.

2008-01-01

Preliminary steps toward modeling a coupled ablation problem using a finite-volume Navier-Stokes code (LAURA) are presented in this paper. Implementation of a surface boundary condition with mass transfer (blowing) is described followed by verification and validation through comparisons with analytic results and experimental data. Application of the code to a carbon-nosetip ablation problem is demonstrated and the results are compared with previously published data. It is concluded that the code and coupled procedure are suitable to support further ablation analyses and studies.

Miniature chemical ionization mass spectrometer for light aircraft measurements of tropospheric ammonia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Silver, J. A.; Bomse, D. S.; Massick, S. M.; Zondlo, M. A.

2003-12-01

Tropospheric ammonia plays important roles in the nucleation, growth, composition, and chemistry of aerosol particles. Unfortunately, high frequency and sensitive measurements of gas phase ammonia are lacking in most airborne-based field campaigns. Chemical ionization mass spectrometers (CIMS) have shown great promise for ammonia measurements, but CIMS instruments typically consume large amounts of power, are highly labor intensive, and are very heavy for most airborne platforms. These characteristics of CIMS instruments severely limit their potential deployment on smaller and lighter aircraft, despite the strong desire for ammonia measurements in atmospheric chemistry field campaigns. To this end, a CIMS ammonia instrument for light aircraft is being developed using a double-focusing, miniature mass spectrometer. The size of the mass spectrometer, comparable to a small apple, allows for higher operating pressures (0.1 mTorr) and lower pumping requirements. Power usage, including pumps and electronics, is estimated to be around 300 W, and the overall instrument including pumps, electronics, and permeation cells is expected to be about the size of a small monitor. The ion source uses americium-241 to generate protonated water ions which proton transfer to form ammonium ions. The ion source is made with commercially available ion optics to minimize machining costs. Mass spectra over its working range (~ 5-120 amu) are well represented by Gaussian shaped peaks. By examining the peak widths as a function of mass location, the resolution of the instrument was determined experimentally to be around 110 (m/delta m). The sensitivity, selectivity, power requirements, size, and performance characteristics of the miniature mass spectrometer will be described along with the possibilities for CIMS measurements on light aircraft.

Dissociative and double photoionization of CO2 from threshold to 90 A

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Masuoka, T.; Samson, J. A. R.

1979-01-01

The molecular photoionization, dissociative photoionization and double photoionization cross sections for CO2 were measured from their onsets down to 90 A by using various combinations of mass spectrometers (a coincidence time-of-flight mass spectrometer and a magnetic mass spectrometer) and light sources (synchrotron radiation, and glow and spark discharge). It is concluded that the one broad peak and the three shoulders in the total adsorption cross section curve between 640 and 90 A are caused completely by dissociative ionization processes. Several peaks observed in the cross section curve for the total fragmentation CO(+)3, O(+) and C(+) are compared with those in the photoelectron spectrum reported for CO2.

A new mass spectrometer system for investigating laser-induced vaporization phenomena

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lincoln, K. A.

1974-01-01

A laser has been combined with a mass spectrometer in a new configuration developed for studies of high-temperature materials. A vacuum-lock, solid-sample inlet is mounted at one end of a cylindrical, high-vacuum chamber one meter in length with a nude ion-source, time-of-flight mass spectrometer at the opposite end. The samples are positioned along the axis of the chamber at distances up to one meter from the ion source, and their surfaces are vaporized by a pulsed laser beam entering via windows on one side of the chamber. The instrumentation along with its capabilities is described, and results from laser-induced vaporization of several graphites are presented.

A field portable mass spectrometer for monitoring organic vapors.

PubMed

Meier, R W

1978-03-01

A portable mass spectrometer has been designed and built under the sponsorship of the US Army for the purpose of monitoring low concentrations of specified organics in the ambient atmosphere. The goals of the development were discrimination, sensitivity, portability, simplicity of operation, economy and convenience. These objectives were met in a system consisting of a computer operated mass spectrometer with a Llewellyn membrane separator inlet system housed in two 26 x 18 x 9 inch aluminum cases with a total weight less than 150 pounds. This system has shown the capability for field detection of hundreds of specific organic vapors at the parts per billion level in the ambient and workplace environments.

Design of An Improved Miniature Ion Neutral Mass Spectrometer for NASA Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Swaminathan, Viji K.; Alig, Roger C.

1997-01-01

The ion optics of NASA's Ion Neutral Mass Spectrometer (INMS) sensor was simulated with three dimensional models of the open source, the quadrupole deflector, the exit lens system and the quadrupole mass analyzer to design more compact models with lower weight. Comparison of calculated transmission with experimental results shows good agreement. Transmission analyses with varying geometrical parameters and voltages throw light on possible ways of reducing the size of the sensor. Trajectories of ions of mass 1-99 amu were simulated to analyze and optimize transmission. Analysis of open source transmission with varying angle of attack shows that the angular acceptance can be considerably increased by programming the voltages on the ion trap/ collimator. Analysis of transmission sensitivity to voltages and misalignments of the quadrupole deflector rods indicate that increased transmission is possible with a geometrically asymmetrical deflector and a deflector can be designed with much lower sensitivities of transmission. Bringing the disks closer together can decrease the size of the quadrupole deflector and also increase transmission. The exit lens system can be redesigned to be smaller by eliminating at least one electrode entirely without loss of transmission. Ceramic materials were investigated to find suitable candidates for use in the construction of lighter weight mass spectrometer. A high-sensitivity, high-resolution portable gas chromatograph mass spectrometer with a mass range of 2-700 amu has been built and will be commercialized in Phase 3.

Modeling of Firn Compaction for Estimating Ice-Sheet Mass Change from Observed Ice-Sheet Elevation Change

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Li, Jun; Zwally, H. Jay

2011-01-01

Changes in ice-sheet surface elevation are caused by a combination of ice-dynamic imbalance, ablation, temporal variations in accumulation rate, firn compaction and underlying bedrock motion. Thus, deriving the rate of ice-sheet mass change from measured surface elevation change requires information on the rate of firn compaction and bedrock motion, which do not involve changes in mass, and requires an appropriate firn density to associate with elevation changes induced by recent accumulation rate variability. We use a 25 year record of surface temperature and a parameterization for accumulation change as a function of temperature to drive a firn compaction model. We apply this formulation to ICESat measurements of surface elevation change at three locations on the Greenland ice sheet in order to separate the accumulation-driven changes from the ice-dynamic/ablation-driven changes, and thus to derive the corresponding mass change. Our calculated densities for the accumulation-driven changes range from 410 to 610 kg/cu m, which along with 900 kg/cu m for the dynamic/ablation-driven changes gives average densities ranging from 680 to 790 kg/cu m. We show that using an average (or "effective") density to convert elevation change to mass change is not valid where the accumulation and the dynamic elevation changes are of opposite sign.

Numerical Simulation of Doped Targets for ICF

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Phillips, Lee; Gardner, John H.; Bodner, Stephen E.; Colombant, Denis; Klapisch, Marcel; Bar-Shalom, Avraham

1997-11-01

The ablative Rayleigh-Taylor (RT) instability can be reduced by preheating the ablator, thereby reducing the peak density and increasing the mass ablation velocity. The ablator can be preheated with radiation from higher Z dopants.(Gardner, J.H., Bodner, S.E., Dahlburg, J.P., Phys. Fluids 3), 1070 (1991) Dopants also reduce the density gradient at the ablator, which provides a second mechanism to reduce the RT growth rate. We have recently developed a more sophisticated and detailed radiation package that uses opacities generated by an STA code, with non-LTE radiation transport based on the Busquet method. This radiation package has been incorporated into NRL's FAST2D radiation hydrodynamics code, which has been used to evaluate and optimize the use of various dopants that can provide interesting levels of preheat for an ICF target.

Involvement of small carbon clusters in the enhancement of high-order harmonic generation of ultrashort pulses in the plasmas produced during ablation of carbon-contained nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ganeev, R. A.

2017-09-01

Various carbon-based nanoparticles ablated at the conditions suitable for efficient harmonic generation during propagation of ultrashort pulses through the laser-produced plasmas were studied. The transmission electron microscopy of ablated debris and the time-of-flight mass-spectroscopy studies of plasmas are presented. The conditions of laser ablation of the carbon-contained nanoparticles (fullerenes, graphene, carbon nanotubes, carbon nanofibers, and diamond nanoparticles) were varied to define the impeding processes restricting the harmonic yield from such laser-produced plasmas. These studies show that the enhancement of harmonics during ablation of nanoparticle targets was related with the appearance of small carbon clusters at the moment of propagation of the ultrashort laser pulses though such plasmas.

Data acquisition techniques for exploiting the uniqueness of the time-of-flight mass spectrometer: Application to sampling pulsed gas systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lincoln, K. A.

1980-01-01

Mass spectra are produced in most mass spectrometers by sweeping some parameter within the instrument as the sampled gases flow into the ion source. It is evident that any fluctuation in the gas during the sweep (mass scan) of the instrument causes the output spectrum to be skewed in its mass peak intensities. The time of flight mass spectrometer (TOFMS) with its fast, repetitive mode of operation produces spectra without skewing or varying instrument parameters and because all ion species are ejected from the ion source simultaneously, the spectra are inherently not skewed despite rapidly changing gas pressure or composition in the source. Methods of exploiting this feature by utilizing fast digital data acquisition systems, such as transient recorders and signal averagers which are commercially available are described. Applications of this technique are presented including TOFMS sampling of vapors produced by both pulsed and continuous laser heating of materials.

TEMPO-Assisted Free Radical-Initiated Peptide Sequencing Mass Spectrometry (FRIPS MS) in Q-TOF and Orbitrap Mass Spectrometers: Single-Step Peptide Backbone Dissociations in Positive Ion Mode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jang, Inae; Lee, Sun Young; Hwangbo, Song; Kang, Dukjin; Lee, Hookeun; Kim, Hugh I.; Moon, Bongjin; Oh, Han Bin

2017-01-01

The present study demonstrates that one-step peptide backbone fragmentations can be achieved using the TEMPO [2-(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl piperidine-1-oxyl)]-assisted free radical-initiated peptide sequencing (FRIPS) mass spectrometry in a hybrid quadrupole time-of-flight (Q-TOF) mass spectrometer and a Q-Exactive Orbitrap instrument in positive ion mode, in contrast to two-step peptide fragmentation in an ion-trap mass spectrometer (reference Anal. Chem. 85, 7044-7051 (30)). In the hybrid Q-TOF and Q-Exactive instruments, higher collisional energies can be applied to the target peptides, compared with the low collisional energies applied by the ion-trap instrument. The higher energy deposition and the additional multiple collisions in the collision cell in both instruments appear to result in one-step peptide backbone dissociations in positive ion mode. This new finding clearly demonstrates that the TEMPO-assisted FRIPS approach is a very useful tool in peptide mass spectrometry research.

Modeling of laser-induced ionization of solid dielectrics for ablation simulations: role of effective mass

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gruzdev, Vitaly

2010-11-01

Modeling of laser-induced ionization and heating of conduction-band electrons by laser radiation frequently serves as a basis for simulations supporting experimental studies of laser-induced ablation and damage of solid dielectrics. Together with band gap and electron-particle collision rate, effective electron mass is one of material parameters employed for the ionization modeling. Exact value of the effective mass is not known for many materials frequently utilized in experiments, e.g., fused silica and glasses. Because of that reason, value of the effective mass is arbitrary varied around "reasonable values" for the ionization modeling. In fact, it is utilized as a fitting parameter to fit experimental data on dependence of ablation or damage threshold on laser parameters. In this connection, we study how strong is the influence of variations of the effective mass on the value of conduction-band electron density. We consider influence of the effective mass on the photo-ionization rate and rate of impact ionization. In particular, it is shown that the photo-ionization rate can vary by 2-4 orders of magnitude with variation of effective mass by 50%. Impact ionization shows a much weaker dependence on effective mass, but it significantly enhances the variations of seed-electron density produced by the photo-ionization. Utilizing those results, we demonstrate that variation of effective mass by 50% produces variations of conduction-band electron density by 6 orders of magnitude. In this connection, we discuss the general issues of the current models of laser-induced ionization.

Time of flight mass spectrometer

DOEpatents

Ulbricht, Jr., William H.

1984-01-01

A time-of-flight mass spectrometer is described in which ions are desorbed from a sample by nuclear fission fragments, such that desorption occurs at the surface of the sample impinged upon by the fission fragments. This configuration allows for the sample to be of any thickness, and eliminates the need for complicated sample preparation.

Electron multiplier-ion detector system

DOEpatents

Dietz, L.A.

1975-08-01

This patent relates to an improved ion detector for use in mass spectrometers for pulse counting signal ions which may have a positive or a negative charge. The invention combines a novel electron multiplier with a scintillator type of ion detector. It is a high vacuum, high voltage device intended for use in ion microprobe mass spectrometers. (auth)

Calculation of total cross sections for charge exchange in molecular collisions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ioup, J.

1979-01-01

Areas of investigation summarized include nitrogen ion-nitrogen molecule collisions; molecular collisions with surfaces; molecular identification from analysis of cracking patterns of selected gases; computer modelling of a quadrupole mass spectrometer; study of space charge in a quadrupole; transmission of the 127 deg cylindrical electrostatic analyzer; and mass spectrometer data deconvolution.

Machined electrostatic sector for mass spectrometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sinha, Mahadeva P. (Inventor)

2001-01-01

An electrostatic sector device for a mass spectrometer is formed from a single piece of machinable ceramic. The machined ceramic is coated with a nickel coating, and a notch is etched in the nickel coating to form two separated portions. The sector can be covered by a cover formed from a separate piece of machined ceramic.

Mass spectrometric analysis of organic compounds, water and volatile constituents in the atmosphere and surface of Mars - The Viking Mars Lander.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anderson, D. M.; Biemann, K.; Orgel, L. E.; Oro, J.; Owen , T.; Shulman, G. P.; Toulmin, P., III; Urey, H. C.

1972-01-01

An experiment centering around a mass spectrometer is described, which is aimed at the identification of organic substances present in the top 10 cm of the surface of Mars and an analysis of the atmosphere for major and minor constituents as well as isotopic abundances. In addition, an indication of the abundance of water in the surface and some information concerning the mineralogy can be obtained by monitoring the gases produced upon heating the soil sample. The organic material will simply be expelled by heating to 150, 300, and 500 C into the carrier gas stream of a gas chromatograph interfaced to the mass spectrometer or by slowly heating the sample in direct communication with the spectrometer. It is planned to analyze a total of up to nine soil samples in order to study diurnal and seasonal variations. The system is designed to give useful data even for minor constituents if the total of organics should be as low as 5 ppm. The spectrometer covers the mass range of 12-200 with adequate resolution.

Formation of Plasma Around a Small Meteoroid: Simulation and Theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sugar, G.; Oppenheim, M. M.; Dimant, Y. S.; Close, S.

2018-05-01

High-power large-aperture radars detect meteors by reflecting radio waves off dense plasma that surrounds a hypersonic meteoroid as it ablates in the Earth's atmosphere. If the plasma density profile around the meteoroid is known, the plasma's radar cross section can be used to estimate meteoroid properties such as mass, density, and composition. This paper presents head echo plasma density distributions obtained via two numerical simulations of a small ablating meteoroid and compares the results to an analytical solution found in Dimant and Oppenheim (2017a, https://doi.org/10.1002/2017JA023960, 2017b, https://doi.org/10.1002/2017JA023963). The first simulation allows ablated meteoroid particles to experience only a single collision to match an assumption in the analytical solution, while the second is a more realistic simulation by allowing multiple collisions. The simulation and analytical results exhibit similar plasma density distributions. At distances much less than λT, the average distance an ablated particle travels from the meteoroid before a collision with an atmospheric particle, the plasma density falls off as 1/R, where R is the distance from the meteoroid center. At distances substantially greater than λT, the plasma density profile has an angular dependence, falling off as 1/R2 directly behind the meteoroid, 1/R3 in a plane perpendicular to the meteoroid's path that contains the meteoroid center, and exp[-1.5(R/λT2/3)]/R in front of the meteoroid. When used for calculating meteoroid masses, this new plasma density model can give masses that are orders of magnitude different than masses calculated from a spherically symmetric Gaussian distribution, which has been used to calculate masses in the past.

Development of Naphthalene PLIF for Making Quantitative Measurements of Ablation Products Transport in Supersonic Flows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Combs, Christopher; Clemens, Noel

2014-11-01

Ablation is a multi-physics process involving heat and mass transfer and codes aiming to predict ablation are in need of experimental data pertaining to the turbulent transport of ablation products for validation. Low-temperature sublimating ablators such as naphthalene can be used to create a limited physics problem and simulate ablation at relatively low temperature conditions. At The University of Texas at Austin, a technique is being developed that uses planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF) of naphthalene to visualize the transport of ablation products in a supersonic flow. In the current work, naphthalene PLIF will be used to make quantitative measurements of the concentration of ablation products in a Mach 5 turbulent boundary layer. For this technique to be used for quantitative research in supersonic wind tunnel facilities, the fluorescence properties of naphthalene must first be investigated over a wide range of state conditions and excitation wavelengths. The resulting calibration of naphthalene fluorescence will be applied to the PLIF images of ablation from a boundary layer plug, yielding 2-D fields of naphthalene mole fraction. These images may help provide data necessary to validate computational models of ablative thermal protection systems for reentry vehicles. Work supported by NASA Space Technology Research Fellowship Program under grant NNX11AN55H.

Some experience with arc-heater simulation of outer planet entry radiation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wells, W. L.; Snow, W. L.

1980-01-01

An electric arc heater was operated at 800 amperes and 100,000 pa (1 atm) with hydrogen, helium, and two mixtures of hydrogen and helium. A VUV-scanning monochromator was used to record the spectra from an end view while a second spectrometer was used to determine the plasma temperature using hydrogen continuum radiation at 562 nm. Except for pure helium, the plasma temperature was found to be too low to produce significant helium radiation, and the measured spectra were primarily the hydrogen spectra with the highest intensity in the pure hydrogen case. A radiation computer code was used to compute the spectra for comparison to the measurements and to extend the study to simulation of outer planet entry radiation. Conductive cooling prevented ablation of phenolic carbon material samples mounted inside the arc heater during a cursory attempt to produce radiation absorption by ablation gases.

Assessment of Tablet Surface Hardness by Laser Ablation and Its Correlation With the Erosion Tendency of Core Tablets.

PubMed

Narang, Ajit S; Breckenridge, Lydia; Guo, Hang; Wang, Jennifer; Wolf, Abraham Avi; Desai, Divyakant; Varia, Sailesh; Badawy, Sherif

2017-01-01

Surface erosion of uncoated tablets results in processing problems such as dusting and defects during coating and is governed by the strength of particle bonding on tablet surface. In this study, the correlation between dusting tendency of tablets in a coating pan with friability and laser ablation surface hardness was assessed using tablets containing different concentrations of magnesium stearate and tartaric acid. Surface erosion propensity of different batches was evaluated by assessing their dusting tendency in the coating pan. In addition, all tablets were analyzed for crushing strength, friability, modified friability test using baffles in the friability apparatus, and weight loss after laser ablation. Tablets with similar crushing strength showed differences in their surface erosion and dusting tendency when rotated in a coating pan. These differences did not correlate well with tablet crushing strength or friability but did show reasonably good correlation with mass loss after laser ablation. These results suggest that tablet surface mass loss by laser ablation can be used as a minipiloting (small-scale) tool to assess tablet surface properties during early stages of drug product development to assess the risk of potential large-scale manufacturing issues. Copyright © 2016 American Pharmacists Association®. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Fast surface temperature measurement of Teflon propellant-in-pulsed ablative discharges using HgCdTe photovoltaic cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Antonsen, Erik L.; Burton, Rodney L.; Reed, Garrett A.; Spanjers, Gregory G.

2006-10-01

High-speed mercury cadmium telluride photovoltaic detectors, sensitive to infrared emission, are investigated as a means of measuring surface temperature on a microsecond time frame during pulsed ablative discharges with Teflon™ as the ablated material. Analysis is used to derive a governing equation for detector output voltage for materials with wavelength dependent emissivity. The detector output voltage is experimentally calibrated against thermocouples embedded in heated Teflon. Experimental calibration is performed with Teflon that has been exposed to ˜200 pulsed discharges and non-plasma-exposed Teflon and is compared to theoretical predictions to analyze emissivity differences. The diagnostic capability is evaluated with measurements of surface temperature from the Teflon propellant of electric micropulsed plasma thrusters. During the pulsed current discharge, there is insufficient information to claim that the surface temperature is accurately measured. However, immediately following the discharge, the postpulse cooling curve is measured. The statistical spread of postpulse surface temperature from shot to shot, most likely due to arc constriction and localization, is investigated to determine an operational envelope for postpulse temperature and mass ablation. This information is useful for determining postpulse ablation contributions to mass loss as well as evaluation of theoretical discharge models currently under development.

Thermal Protection System Mass Estimating Relationships for Blunt-Body, Earth Entry Spacecraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sepka, Steven A.; Samareh, Jamshid A.

2015-01-01

System analysis and design of any entry system must balance the level fidelity for each discipline against the project timeline. One way to inject high fidelity analysis earlier in the design effort is to develop surrogate models for the high-fidelity disciplines. Surrogate models for the Thermal Protection System (TPS) are formulated as Mass Estimating Relationships (MERs). The TPS MERs are presented that predict the amount of TPS necessary for safe Earth entry for blunt-body spacecraft using simple correlations that closely match estimates from NASA's high-fidelity ablation modeling tool, the Fully Implicit Ablation and Thermal Analysis Program (FIAT). These MERs provide a first order estimate for rapid feasibility studies. There are 840 different trajectories considered in this study, and each TPS MER has a peak heating limit. MERs for the vehicle forebody include the ablators Phenolic Impregnated Carbon Ablator (PICA) and Carbon Phenolic atop Advanced Carbon-Carbon. For the aftbody, the materials are Silicone Impregnated Reusable Ceramic Ablator (SIRCA), Acusil II, SLA-561V, and LI-900. The MERs are accurate to within 14% (at one standard deviation) of FIAT prediction, and the most any MER under predicts FIAT TPS thickness is 18.7%. This work focuses on the development of these MERs, the resulting equations, model limitations, and model accuracy.

VKI Activities in Support of AFOSR Basic Research Interests: Steady State Pyrolysis and Ablation Investigation

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-03-31

flux with and without chocking flows above 0.04 g/ s, the heat flux becomes more constant, only slightly de- creasing with increased transpiration...the flowfield species and the injected species. For air, the initial species are N2 and 02. As the flow passes through the shock wave surrounding the...fiber. The captured light is then sent to an Ocean Optics HR4000CG-UV-NIR spectrometer for dispersion and recording of the spectra. The main

MASS SPECTROMETRY

DOEpatents

Friedman, L.

1962-01-01

method is described for operating a mass spectrometer to improve its resolution qualities and to extend its period of use substantially between cleanings. In this method, a small amount of a beta emitting gas such as hydrogen titride or carbon-14 methane is added to the sample being supplied to the spectrometer for investigation. The additive establishes leakage paths on the surface of the non-conducting film accumulating within the vacuum chamber of the spectrometer, thereby reducing the effect of an accumulated static charge on the electrostatic and magnetic fields established within the instrument. (AEC)

The neutral mass spectrometer on Dynamics Explorer B

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carignan, G. R.; Block, B. P.; Maurer, J. C.; Hedin, A. E.; Reber, C. A.; Spencer, N. W.

1981-01-01

A neutral gas mass spectrometer has been developed to satisfy the measurement requirements of the Dynamics Explorer mission. The mass spectrometer, a quadrupole, will measure the abundances of neutral species in the region 300-500 km in the earth's atmosphere. These measurements will be used in concert with other simultaneous observations on Dynamics Explorer to study the physical processes involved in the interactions of the magnetosphere-ionosphere-atmosphere system. The instrument, which is similar to that flown on Atmosphere Explorer, employs an electron beam ion source operating in the closed mode and a discrete dynode multiplier as a detector. The mass range is 22 to 50 amu. The abundances of atomic oxygen, molecular nitrogen, helium, argon, and possibly atomic nitrogen will be measured to an accuracy of about + or - 15% over the specified altitude range, with a temporal resolution of one second.

Development of novel nano-composite membranes as introduction systems for mass spectrometers: Contrasting nano-composite membranes and conventional inlet systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miranda, Luis Diego

This dissertation presents the development of novel nano-composite membranes as introduction systems for mass spectrometers. These nano-composite membranes incorporate anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) membranes as templates that can be used by themselves or modified by a variety of chemical deposition processes. Two types of nano-composite membranes are presented. The first nano-composite membrane has carbon deposited within the pores of an AAO membrane. The second nano-composite membrane is made by coating an AAO membrane with a thin polymer film. The following chapters describe the transmission properties these nano-composite membranes and compare them to conventional mass spectrometry introduction systems. The nano- composite membranes were finally coupled to the inlet system of an underwater mass spectrometer revealing their utility in field deployments.

A Numerical Analysis of the Transient Response of an Ablation System Including Effects of Thermal Nonequilibrium, Mass Transfer and Chemical Kinetics. Ph.D Thesis - Virginia Polytechnic Inst. and State Univ.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Clark, R. K.

1972-01-01

The differential equations governing the transient response of a one-dimensional ablative thermal protection system undergoing stagnation ablation are derived. These equations are for thermal nonequilibrium effects between the pyrolysis gases and the char layer and kinetically controlled chemical reactions and mass transfer between the pyrolysis gases and the char layer. The boundary conditions are written for the particular case of stagnation heating with surface removal by oxidation or sublimation and pyrolysis of the uncharred layer occurring in a plane. The governing equations and boundary conditions are solved numerically using the modified implicit method (Crank-Nicolson method). Numerical results are compared with exact solutions for a number of simplified cases. The comparison is favorable in each instance.

Calibration of a Noble Gas Mass Spectrometer with an Atmospheric Argon Standard (Invited)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prasad, V.; Grove, M.

2009-12-01

Like other mass spectrometers, gas source instruments are very good at precisely measuring isotopic ratios but need to be calibrated with a standard to be accurate. The need for calibration arises due to the complicated ionization process which inefficiently and differentially creates ions from the various isotopes that make up the elemental gas. Calibration of the ionization process requires materials with well understood isotopic compositions as standards. Our project goal was to calibrate a noble gas (Noblesse) mass spectrometer with a purified air sample. Our sample obtained from Ocean Beach in San Francisco was under known temperature, pressure, volume, humidity. We corrected the pressure for humidity and used the ideal gas law to calculate the number of moles of argon gas. We then removed all active gasses using specialized equipment designed for this purpose at the United States Geological Survey. At the same time, we measured the volume ratios of various parts of the gas extraction line system associated with the Noblesse mass spectrometer. Using this data, we calculated how much Ar was transferred to the reservoir from the vacuum-sealed vial that contained the purified gas standard. Using similar measurements, we also calculated how much Ar was introduced into the extraction line from a pipette system and how much of this Ar was ultimately expanded into the Noblesse mass spectrometer. Based upon this information, it was possible to calibrate the argon sensitivity of the mass spectrometer. From a knowledge of the isotopic composition of air, it was also possible to characterize how ionized argon isotopes were fractionated during analysis. By repeatedly analyzing our standard we measured a 40Ar Sensitivity of 2.05 amps/bar and a 40Ar/36Ar ratio of 309.2 on the Faraday detector. In contrast, measurements carried out by ion counting using electron multipliers yield a value (296.8) which is much closer to the actual atmospheric 40Ar/36Ar value of 295.5.

Onsite Gaseous Centrifuge Enrichment Plant UF6 Cylinder Destructive Analysis

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Anheier, Norman C.; Cannon, Bret D.; Qiao, Hong

2012-07-17

The IAEA safeguards approach for gaseous centrifuge enrichment plants (GCEPs) includes measurements of gross, partial, and bias defects in a statistical sampling plan. These safeguard methods consist principally of mass and enrichment nondestructive assay (NDA) verification. Destructive assay (DA) samples are collected from a limited number of cylinders for high precision offsite mass spectrometer analysis. DA is typically used to quantify bias defects in the GCEP material balance. Under current safeguards measures, the operator collects a DA sample from a sample tap following homogenization. The sample is collected in a small UF6 sample bottle, then sealed and shipped under IAEAmore » chain of custody to an offsite analytical laboratory. Current practice is expensive and resource intensive. We propose a new and novel approach for performing onsite gaseous UF6 DA analysis that provides rapid and accurate assessment of enrichment bias defects. DA samples are collected using a custom sampling device attached to a conventional sample tap. A few micrograms of gaseous UF6 is chemically adsorbed onto a sampling coupon in a matter of minutes. The collected DA sample is then analyzed onsite using Laser Ablation Absorption Ratio Spectrometry-Destructive Assay (LAARS-DA). DA results are determined in a matter of minutes at sufficient accuracy to support reliable bias defect conclusions, while greatly reducing DA sample volume, analysis time, and cost.« less

Imaging of Selenium by Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) in 2-D Electrophoresis Gels and Biological Tissues.

PubMed

Cruz, Elisa Castañeda Santa; Susanne Becker, J; Sabine Becker, J; Sussulini, Alessandra

2018-01-01

Selenium and selenoproteins are important components of living organisms that play a role in different biological processes. Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) is a powerful analytical technique that has been employed to obtain distribution maps of selenium in biological tissues in a direct manner, as well as in selenoproteins, previously separated by their molecular masses and isoelectric points using two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (2-D PAGE). In this chapter, we present the protocols to perform LA-ICP-MS imaging experiments, allowing the distribution visualization and determination of selenium and/or selenoproteins in biological systems.

Desorption in Mass Spectrometry.

PubMed

Usmanov, Dilshadbek Tursunbayevich; Ninomiya, Satoshi; Chen, Lee Chuin; Saha, Subhrakanti; Mandal, Mridul Kanti; Sakai, Yuji; Takaishi, Rio; Habib, Ahsan; Hiraoka, Kenzo; Yoshimura, Kentaro; Takeda, Sen; Wada, Hiroshi; Nonami, Hiroshi

2017-01-01

In mass spectrometry, analytes must be released in the gas phase. There are two representative methods for the gasification of the condensed samples, i.e. , ablation and desorption. While ablation is based on the explosion induced by the energy accumulated in the condensed matrix, desorption is a single molecular process taking place on the surface. In this paper, desorption methods for mass spectrometry developed in our laboratory: flash heating/rapid cooling, Leidenfrost phenomenon-assisted thermal desorption (LPTD), solid/solid friction, liquid/solid friction, electrospray droplet impact (EDI) ionization/desorption, and probe electrospray ionization (PESI), will be described. All the methods are concerned with the surface and interface phenomena. The concept of how to desorb less-volatility compounds from the surface will be discussed.

Galileo Probe forebody thermal protection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Green, M. J.; Davy, W. C.

1981-01-01

Material response solutions for the forebody heat shield on the candidate 310-kg Galileo Probe are presented. A charring material ablation analysis predicts thermochemical surface recession, insulation thickness, and total required heat shield mass. Benchmark shock layer solutions provide the imposed entry heating environments on the ablating surface. Heat shield sizing results are given for a nominal entry into modeled nominal and cool-heavy Jovian atmospheres, and for two heat-shield property models. The nominally designed heat shield requires a mass of at least 126 kg and would require an additional 13 kg to survive entry into the less probable cool-heavy atmosphere. The material-property model with a 30% surface reflectance reduces these mass requirements by as much as 16%.

Tip-enhanced ablation and ionization mass spectrometry for nanoscale chemical analysis

PubMed Central

Liang, Zhisen; Zhang, Shudi; Li, Xiaoping; Wang, Tongtong; Huang, Yaping; Hang, Wei; Yang, Zhilin; Li, Jianfeng; Tian, Zhongqun

2017-01-01

Spectroscopic methods with nanoscale lateral resolution are becoming essential in the fields of physics, chemistry, geology, biology, and materials science. However, the lateral resolution of laser-based mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) techniques has so far been limited to the microscale. This report presents the development of tip-enhanced ablation and ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (TEAI-TOFMS), using a shell-isolated apertureless silver tip. The TEAI-TOFMS results indicate the capability and reproducibility of the system for generating nanosized craters and for acquiring the corresponding mass spectral signals. Multi-elemental analysis of nine inorganic salt residues and MSI of a potassium salt residue pattern at a 50-nm lateral resolution were achieved. These results demonstrate the opportunity for the distribution of chemical compositions at the nanoscale to be visualized. PMID:29226250

Measurements of Laser Imprint with High-Z Coated targets on Omega EP

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karasik, Max; Oh, J.; Stoeckl, C.; Aglitskiy, Y.; Schmitt, A. J.; Bates, J. W.; Obenschain, S. P.

2015-11-01

Previous experiments on Nike KrF laser (λ = 248nm) at NRL found that a thin (400-800 Å) high-Z (Au or Pd) overcoat on the laser side of the target is effective in suppressing broadband imprint and reducing ablative Richtmyer-Meshkov growth. The overcoat initially absorbs the laser and emits soft x-rays that ablate the target, forming a large stand-off distance between laser absorption and ablation and driving the target at higher mass ablation rate. Implementation of this technique on the frequency-tripled Nd:glass (351 nm) NIF would enable a wider range direct drive experiments there. To this end, we are carrying out experiments using the NIF-like beams of Omega EP. Analogous to experiments on Nike, areal mass perturbations due to RT-amplified laser imprint are measured using curved crystal imaging coupled to a streak camera. High-Z coating dynamics and target trajectory are imaged side-on. First results indicate that imprint suppression is observed, albeit with thicker coatings. Work supported by the Department of Energy/NNSA.

Effect of Non-Equilibrium Surface Thermochemistry in Simulation of Carbon Based Ablators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chen, Yih-Kanq; Gokcen, Tahir

2012-01-01

This study demonstrates that coupling of a material thermal response code and a flow solver using non-equilibrium gas/surface interaction model provides time-accurate solutions for the multidimensional ablation of carbon based charring ablators. The material thermal response code used in this study is the Two-dimensional Implicit Thermal-response and AblatioN Program (TITAN), which predicts charring material thermal response and shape change on hypersonic space vehicles. Its governing equations include total energy balance, pyrolysis gas mass conservation, and a three-component decomposition model. The flow code solves the reacting Navier-Stokes equations using Data Parallel Line Relaxation (DPLR) method. Loose coupling between the material response and flow codes is performed by solving the surface mass balance in DPLR and the surface energy balance in TITAN. Thus, the material surface recession is predicted by finite-rate gas/surface interaction boundary conditions implemented in DPLR, and the surface temperature and pyrolysis gas injection rate are computed in TITAN. Two sets of nonequilibrium gas/surface interaction chemistry between air and the carbon surface developed by Park and Zhluktov, respectively, are studied. Coupled fluid-material response analyses of stagnation tests conducted in NASA Ames Research Center arc-jet facilities are considered. The ablating material used in these arc-jet tests was Phenolic Impregnated Carbon Ablator (PICA). Computational predictions of in-depth material thermal response and surface recession are compared with the experimental measurements for stagnation cold wall heat flux ranging from 107 to 1100 Watts per square centimeter.

Trace element analysis of synthetic mono- and poly-crystalline CaF 2 by ultraviolet laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry at 266 and 193 nm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koch, J.; Feldmann, I.; Hattendorf, B.; Günther, D.; Engel, U.; Jakubowski, N.; Bolshov, M.; Niemax, K.; Hergenröder, R.

2002-06-01

The analytical figures of merit for ultraviolet laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (UV-LA-ICP-MS) at 266 nm with respect to the trace element analysis of high-purity, UV-transmitting alkaline earth halides are investigated and discussed. Ablation threshold energy density values and ablation rates for mono- and poly-crystalline CaF 2 samples were determined. Furthermore, Pb-, Rb-, Sr-, Ba- and Yb-specific analysis was performed. For these purposes, a pulsed Nd:YAG laser operated at the fourth harmonic of the fundamental wavelength (λ=266 nm) and a double-focusing sector field ICP-MS detector were employed. Depending on the background noise and isotope-specific sensitivity, the detection limits typically varied from 0.7 ng/g for Sr to 7 ng/g in the case of Pb. The concentrations were determined using a glass standard reference material (SRM NIST612). In order to demonstrate the sensitivity of the arrangement described, comparative measurements by means of a commercial ablation system consisting of an ArF excimer laser (λ=193 nm) and a quadrupole-type ICP-MS (ICP-QMS) instrument were carried out. The accuracy of both analyses was in good agreement, whereas ablation at 266 nm and detection using sector-field ICP-MS led to a sensitivity that was one order of magnitude above that obtained at 193 nm with ICP-QMS.

Time-resolved Measurements of ICF Capsule Ablator Properties by Streaked X-Ray Radiography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hicks, Damien

2008-11-01

Determining the capsule ablator thickness and peak laser or x-ray drive pressure required to optimize fuel compression is a critical part of ensuring ICF ignition on the NIF. If too little ablator is burned off, the implosion velocity will be too low for adequate final compression; if too much ablator is burned off, the fuel will be preheated or the shell will be broken up by growth of hydrodynamic instabilities, again compromising compression. Avoiding such failure modes requires having an accurate, in-flight measure of the implosion velocity, areal density, and remaining mass of the ablator near peak velocity. We present a new technique which achieves simultaneous time-resolved measurements of all these parameters in a single, area-backlit, x-ray streaked radiograph. This is accomplished by tomographic inversion of the radiograph to determine the radial density profile at each time step; scalar quantities such as the average position, areal density, and mass of the ablator can then be calculated by taking moments of this density profile. Details of the successful demonstration of this technique using backlit Cu-doped Be capsule implosions at the Omega facility will be presented. This work was performed under the auspices of the U.S.Department of Energy by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344 and in collaboration with Brian Spears, David Braun, Peter Celliers, Gilbert Collins, and Otto Landen at LLNL and Rick Olson at SNL.

Halo-shaped Flowing Atmospheric Pressure Afterglow – a Heavenly New Design for Simplified Sample Introduction and Improved Ionization in Ambient Mass Spectrometry

PubMed Central

Pfeuffer, Kevin P.; Schaper, J. Niklas; Shelley, Jacob T.; Ray, Steven J.; Chan, George C.-Y.; Bings, Nicolas H.; Hieftje, Gary M.

2013-01-01

The flowing atmospheric pressure afterglow (FAPA) is a promising new source for atmospheric pressure, ambient desorption/ionization mass spectrometry. However, problems exist with reproducible sample introduction into the FAPA source. To overcome this limitation, a new FAPA geometry has been developed in which concentric tubular electrodes are utilized to form a halo-shaped discharge; this geometry has been termed the halo-FAPA or h-FAPA. With this new geometry, it is still possible to achieve direct desorption and ionization from a surface; however, sample introduction through the inner capillary is also possible and improves interaction between the sample material (solution, vapor, or aerosol) and the plasma to promote desorption and ionization. The h-FAPA operates with a helium gas flow of 0.60 L/min outer, 0.30 L/min inner, applied current of 30 mA at 200 V for 6 watts of power. In addition, separation of the discharge proper and sample material prevents perturbations to the plasma. Optical-emission characterization and gas rotational temperatures reveal that the temperature of the discharge is not significantly affected (< 3% change at 450K) by water vapor during solution-aerosol sample introduction. The primary mass-spectral background species are protonated water clusters, and the primary analyte ions are protonated molecular ions (M+H+). Flexibility of the new ambient sampling source is demonstrated by coupling it with a laser ablation unit, a concentric nebulizer and a droplet-on-demand system for sample introduction. A novel arrangement is also presented in which the central channel of the h-FAPA is used as the inlet to a mass spectrometer. PMID:23808829

Halo-shaped flowing atmospheric pressure afterglow: a heavenly design for simplified sample introduction and improved ionization in ambient mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Pfeuffer, Kevin P; Schaper, J Niklas; Shelley, Jacob T; Ray, Steven J; Chan, George C-Y; Bings, Nicolas H; Hieftje, Gary M

2013-08-06

The flowing atmospheric-pressure afterglow (FAPA) is a promising new source for atmospheric-pressure, ambient desorption/ionization mass spectrometry. However, problems exist with reproducible sample introduction into the FAPA source. To overcome this limitation, a new FAPA geometry has been developed in which concentric tubular electrodes are utilized to form a halo-shaped discharge; this geometry has been termed the halo-FAPA or h-FAPA. With this new geometry, it is still possible to achieve direct desorption and ionization from a surface; however, sample introduction through the inner capillary is also possible and improves interaction between the sample material (solution, vapor, or aerosol) and the plasma to promote desorption and ionization. The h-FAPA operates with a helium gas flow of 0.60 L/min outer, 0.30 L/min inner, and applied current of 30 mA at 200 V for 6 W of power. In addition, separation of the discharge proper and sample material prevents perturbations to the plasma. Optical-emission characterization and gas rotational temperatures reveal that the temperature of the discharge is not significantly affected (<3% change at 450 K) by water vapor during solution-aerosol sample introduction. The primary mass-spectral background species are protonated water clusters, and the primary analyte ions are protonated molecular ions (M + H(+)). Flexibility of the new ambient sampling source is demonstrated by coupling it with a laser ablation unit, a concentric nebulizer, and a droplet-on-demand system for sample introduction. A novel arrangement is also presented in which the central channel of the h-FAPA is used as the inlet to a mass spectrometer.

Advanced Ablative TPS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gasch, Matthew J.

2011-01-01

Early NASA missions (Gemini, Apollo, Mars Viking) employed new ablative TPS that were tailored for the entry environment. After 40 years, heritage ablative TPS materials using Viking or Pathfinder era materials are at or near their performance limits and will be inadequate for future exploration missions. Significant advances in TPS materials technology are needed in order to enable any subsequent human exploration missions beyond Low Earth Orbit. This poster summarizes some recent progress at NASA in developing families of advanced rigid/conformable and flexible ablators that could potentially be used for thermal protection in planetary entry missions. In particular the effort focuses technologies required to land heavy (approx.40 metric ton) masses on Mars to facilitate future exploration plans.

Three-dimensional single-mode nonlinear ablative Rayleigh-Taylor instability

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yan, R.; Betti, R.; Sanz, J.

The nonlinear evolution of the single-mode ablative Rayleigh-Taylor instability is studied in three dimensions. As the mode wavelength approaches the cutoff of the linear spectrum (short-wavelength modes), it is found that the three-dimensional (3D) terminal bubble velocity greatly exceeds both the two-dimensional (2D) value and the classical 3D bubble velocity. Unlike in 2D, the 3D short-wavelength bubble velocity does not saturate. The growing 3D bubble acceleration is driven by the unbounded accumulation of vorticity inside the bubble. As a result, the vorticity is transferred by mass ablation from the Rayleigh-Taylor spikes to the ablated plasma filling the bubble volume.

How cores grow by pebble accretion. I. Direct core growth

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brouwers, M. G.; Vazan, A.; Ormel, C. W.

2018-03-01

Context. Planet formation by pebble accretion is an alternative to planetesimal-driven core accretion. In this scenario, planets grow by the accretion of cm- to m-sized pebbles instead of km-sized planetesimals. One of the main differences with planetesimal-driven core accretion is the increased thermal ablation experienced by pebbles. This can provide early enrichment to the planet's envelope, which influences its subsequent evolution and changes the process of core growth. Aims: We aim to predict core masses and envelope compositions of planets that form by pebble accretion and compare mass deposition of pebbles to planetesimals. Specifically, we calculate the core mass where pebbles completely evaporate and are absorbed before reaching the core, which signifies the end of direct core growth. Methods: We model the early growth of a protoplanet by calculating the structure of its envelope, taking into account the fate of impacting pebbles or planetesimals. The region where high-Z material can exist in vapor form is determined by the temperature-dependent vapor pressure. We include enrichment effects by locally modifying the mean molecular weight of the envelope. Results: In the pebble case, three phases of core growth can be identified. In the first phase (Mcore < 0.23-0.39 M⊕), pebbles impact the core without significant ablation. During the second phase (Mcore < 0.5M⊕), ablation becomes increasingly severe. A layer of high-Z vapor starts to form around the core that absorbs a small fraction of the ablated mass. The rest of the material either rains out to the core or instead mixes outwards, slowing core growth. In the third phase (Mcore > 0.5M⊕), the high-Z inner region expands outwards, absorbing an increasing fraction of the ablated material as vapor. Rainout ends before the core mass reaches 0.6 M⊕, terminating direct core growth. In the case of icy H2O pebbles, this happens before 0.1 M⊕. Conclusions: Our results indicate that pebble accretion can directly form rocky cores up to only 0.6 M⊕, and is unable to form similarly sized icy cores. Subsequent core growth can proceed indirectly when the planet cools, provided it is able to retain its high-Z material.

Space Applications of Mass Spectrometry. Chapter 31

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hoffman, John H.; Griffin, Timothy P.; Limero, Thomas; Arkin, C. Richard

2010-01-01

Mass spectrometers have been involved in essentially all aspects of space exploration. This chapter outlines some of these many uses. Mass spectrometers have not only helped to expand our knowledge and understanding of the world and solar system around us, they have helped to put man safely in space and expand our frontier. Mass spectrometry continues to prove to be a very reliable, robust, and flexible analytical instrument, ensuring that its use will continue to help aid our investigation of the universe and this small planet that we call home.

A mass spectrometer for pain-response monitoring in rats

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elizarov, A. Yu.

2017-06-01

A mass spectrometer with a membrane interface has been used for measuring the relative concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) released from rat skin in response to thermal irritation and pain stimulus during intraperitoneal propofol-lidocaine anesthesia. It is established that the local anesthetic lidocaine directly influences the central nervous system and induces antinociceptive reaction to thermal irritation.

Yield of Routine Image-Guided Biopsy of Renal Mass Thermal Ablation Zones: 11-Year Experience.

PubMed

Wasnik, Ashish P; Higgins, Ellen J; Fox, Giovanna A; Caoili, Elaine M; Davenport, Matthew S

2018-06-19

To determine the yield of routine image-guided core biopsy of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) thermal ablation zones. Institutional review board approval was obtained for this Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act-compliant quality improvement effort. Routine core biopsy of RCC ablation zones was performed 2 months postablation from July 2003 to December 2014. Routine nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide staining was performed by specialized genitourinary pathologists to assess cell viability. The original purpose of performing routine postablation biopsy was to verify, in addition to imaging, whether the mass was completely treated. Imaging was stratified as negative, indeterminate, or positive for viable malignancy. Histology was stratified as negative, indeterminate, positive, or nondiagnostic for viable malignancy. Histology results were compared to prebiopsy imaging findings. Routine ablation zone biopsy was performed after 50% (146/292) of index ablations (24 cryoablations, 122 radiofrequency ablations), and postablation imaging was performed more often with multiphasic computed tomography than magnetic resonance imaging (100 vs 46, p < 0.0001). When imaging was negative (n = 117), biopsy added no additional information (92% [n = 108] negative, 0.9% [n = 1] indeterminate, 7% [n = 8] nondiagnostic). When imaging was indeterminate (n = 19), 11% (n = 2) of biopsies had viable RCC and 89% (n = 17) were negative. When imaging was positive, biopsy detected viable neoplasm in only 10% (1/10) of cases; 80% (8/10) were negative and 10% (1/10) were nondiagnostic. Routine biopsy of renal ablation zones to validate postablation imaging results was not value-added and therefore was discontinued at the study institution. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Characterization of a turbomolecular-pumped magnetic sector mass spectrometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mehta, Narinder K.

1988-01-01

A Perkin Elmer MGA-1200, turbomolecular-pumped, magnetic sector, multiple gas analyzer mass spectrometer with modified inlet for fast response was characterized for the analysis of hydrogen, helium, oxygen and argon in nitrogen and helium background gases. This instrument was specially modified for the Vanderberg AFB SLC-6 Hydrogen Disposal Test Program, as a part of the Hydrogen Sampling System (H2S2). Linearity, precision, drift, detection limits and accuracy among other analytical parameters for each of the background gas were studied to evaluate the performance of the instrument. The result demonstrates that H2S2 mass spectrometer is a stable instrument and can be utilized for the quantitative analytical determination of hydrogen, helium, oxygen and argon in nitrogen and helium background gases.

In-situ continuous water monitoring system

DOEpatents

Thompson, Cyril V.; Wise, Marcus B.

1998-01-01

An in-situ continuous liquid monitoring system for continuously analyzing volatile components contained in a water source comprises: a carrier gas supply, an extraction container and a mass spectrometer. The carrier gas supply continuously supplies the carrier gas to the extraction container and is mixed with a water sample that is continuously drawn into the extraction container by the flow of carrier gas into the liquid directing device. The carrier gas continuously extracts the volatile components out of the water sample. The water sample is returned to the water source after the volatile components are extracted from it. The extracted volatile components and the carrier gas are delivered continuously to the mass spectrometer and the volatile components are continuously analyzed by the mass spectrometer.

In-situ continuous water monitoring system

DOEpatents

Thompson, C.V.; Wise, M.B.

1998-03-31

An in-situ continuous liquid monitoring system for continuously analyzing volatile components contained in a water source comprises: a carrier gas supply, an extraction container and a mass spectrometer. The carrier gas supply continuously supplies the carrier gas to the extraction container and is mixed with a water sample that is continuously drawn into the extraction container by the flow of carrier gas into the liquid directing device. The carrier gas continuously extracts the volatile components out of the water sample. The water sample is returned to the water source after the volatile components are extracted from it. The extracted volatile components and the carrier gas are delivered continuously to the mass spectrometer and the volatile components are continuously analyzed by the mass spectrometer. 2 figs.

A program for mass spectrometer control and data processing analyses in isotope geology; written in BASIC for an 8K Nova 1120 computer

USGS Publications Warehouse

Stacey, J.S.; Hope, J.

1975-01-01

A system is described which uses a minicomputer to control a surface ionization mass spectrometer in the peak switching mode, with the object of computing isotopic abundance ratios of elements of geologic interest. The program uses the BASIC language and is sufficiently flexible to be used for multiblock analyses of any spectrum containing from two to five peaks. In the case of strontium analyses, ratios are corrected for rubidium content and normalized for mass spectrometer fractionation. Although almost any minicomputer would be suitable, the model used was the Data General Nova 1210 with 8K memory. Assembly language driver program and interface hardware-descriptions for the Nova 1210 are included.

Using reflection time-of-flight mass spectrometer techniques to investigate cluster dynamics and bonding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, Shiqing; Castleman, A. W., Jr.

1994-02-01

Lase based time-of-flight mass spectrometer systems affixed with reflectrons are valuable tools for investigating cluster dynamics and reactions, spectroscopy and structures. Utilizing the reflectron time-of-flight mass spectrometer techniques, both decay fractions and kinetic energy releases of metastable cluster ions can be measured with high precision. By applying related theoretical models, the desired thermochemical values of metastable species can be deduced, which are otherwise very difficult to obtain. Several examples are discussed with attention focused on ammonia as a test case for hydrogen bond systems, and xenon for weaker van der Waals clusters. A brief overview of applications to investigating solvation effects on reactions and structures, delayed electron transfer and ionization through intracluster Penning ionization is also given.

Holistic Interactions of Shallow Clouds, Aerosols, and Land-Ecosystems (HI-SCALE) Field Campaign Report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fast, J. D.; Berg, L. K.; Burleyson, C.

Cumulus convection is an important component in the atmospheric radiation budget and hydrologic cycle over the southern Great Plains and over many regions of the world, particularly during the summertime growing season when intense turbulence induced by surface radiation couples the land surface to clouds. Current convective cloud parameterizations contain uncertainties resulting in part from insufficient coincident data that couples cloud macrophysical and microphysical properties to inhomogeneities in land surface, boundary layer, and aerosol properties. The Holistic Interactions of Shallow Clouds, Aerosols, and Land-Ecosystems (HI-SCALE) campaign was designed to provide a detailed set of measurements that are needed to obtainmore » a more complete understanding of the lifecycle of shallow clouds by coupling cloud macrophysical and microphysical properties to land surface properties, ecosystems, and aerosols. Some of the land-atmosphere-cloud interactions that can be studied using HI-SCALE data are shown in Figure 1. HI-SCALE consisted of two 4-week intensive operation periods (IOPs), one in the spring (April 24-May 21) and the other in the late summer (August 28-September 24) of 2016, to take advantage of different stages of the plant lifecycle, the distribution of “greenness” for various types of vegetation in the vicinity of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) Climate Research Facility Southern Great Plains (SGP) site, and aerosol properties that vary during the growing season. As expected, satellite measurements indicated that the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) was much “greener” in the vicinity of the SGP site during the spring IOP than the late summer IOP as a result of winter wheat maturing in the spring and being harvested in the early summer. As shown in Figure 2, temperatures were cooler than average and soil moisture was high during the spring IOP, while temperatures were warmer than average and soil moisture was low during the late summer IOP. These factors likely influence the occurrence and lifecycle of shallow clouds. Most of the instrumentation was deployed on the ARM Aerial Facility (AAF) Gulfstream 1 (G-1) aircraft, including those that measure atmospheric turbulence, cloud water content and drop size distributions, aerosol precursor gases, aerosol chemical composition and size distributions, and cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) concentrations. The specific instrumentation is listed in Table 1. The team of scientists participating in the G-1 flights were from Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL), and the University of Washington. Routine ARM aerosol measurements made at the surface were supplemented with aerosol microphysical properties measurements, with support from the DOE Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory (EMSL) User Facility and the Atmospheric System Radiation (ASR) program. This included deploying a scanning mobility particle sizer (SMPS) to measure aerosol size distribution, a proton transfer reaction-mass spectrometer (PTR-MS) to measure volatile organic compounds, an aerosol mass spectrometer (AMS) to measure bulk aerosol composition, and the single-particle laser ablation time-of-flight mass spectrometer (SPLAT II) to measure single-particle aerosol composition at the SGP site Guest Instrumentation Facility. In this way, characterization of aerosol properties at the surface and on the G-1 were consistent. In addition, the HI-SCALE: Nanoparticle Composition and Precursors add-on campaign was conducted during the second IOP in which several state-of-the-science chemical ionization mass spectrometers were deployed to measure nanoparticle composition and precursors. Scientists participating in the surface measurements were from PNNL, BNL, University California–Irvine, Augsberg College, Colorado University, Aerodyne Inc., and Aerosol Dynamics Inc.« less

Extension to Higher Mass Numbers of an Improved Knockout-Ablation-Coalescence Model for Secondary Neutron and Light Ion Production in Cosmic Ray Interactions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Indi Sriprisan, Sirikul; Townsend, Lawrence; Cucinotta, Francis A.; Miller, Thomas M.

Purpose: An analytical knockout-ablation-coalescence model capable of making quantitative predictions of the neutron spectra from high-energy nucleon-nucleus and nucleus-nucleus collisions is being developed for use in space radiation protection studies. The FORTRAN computer code that implements this model is called UBERNSPEC. The knockout or abrasion stage of the model is based on Glauber multiple scattering theory. The ablation part of the model uses the classical evaporation model of Weisskopf-Ewing. In earlier work, the knockout-ablation model has been extended to incorporate important coalescence effects into the formalism. Recently, alpha coalescence has been incorporated, and the ability to predict light ion spectra with the coalescence model added. The earlier versions were limited to nuclei with mass numbers less than 69. In this work, the UBERNSPEC code has been extended to make predictions of secondary neutrons and light ion production from the interactions of heavy charged particles with higher mass numbers (as large as 238). The predictions are compared with published measurements of neutron spectra and light ion energy for a variety of collision pairs. Furthermore, the predicted spectra from this work are compared with the predictions from the recently-developed heavy ion event generator incorporated in the Monte Carlo radiation transport code HETC-HEDS.

Implementation of Radiation, Ablation, and Free Energy Minimization Modules for Coupled Simulations of Hypersonic Flow

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gnoffo, Peter A.; Johnston, Christopher O.; Thompson, Richard A.

2009-01-01

A description of models and boundary conditions required for coupling radiation and ablation physics to a hypersonic flow simulation is provided. Chemical equilibrium routines for varying elemental mass fraction are required in the flow solver to integrate with the equilibrium chemistry assumption employed in the ablation models. The capability also enables an equilibrium catalytic wall boundary condition in the non-ablating case. The paper focuses on numerical implementation issues using FIRE II, Mars return, and Apollo 4 applications to provide context for discussion. Variable relaxation factors applied to the Jacobian elements of partial equilibrium relations required for convergence are defined. Challenges of strong radiation coupling in a shock capturing algorithm are addressed. Results are presented to show how the current suite of models responds to a wide variety of conditions involving coupled radiation and ablation.

Early Activity of Cometary Species from ROSINA/DFMS at 67P/ Churyumov-Gerasimenko

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hässig, Myrtha; Fuselier, Stephen A.; Altwegg, Kathrin; Balsiger, Hans; Berthelier, Jean-Jacques; Bieler, André; Calmonte, Ursina; Dhooghe, Frederik; Fiethe, Björn; Gasc, Sébastien; Gombosi, Tamas I.; Jäckel, Annette; Korth, Axel; Le Roy, Léna; Rème, Henri; Rubin, Martin; Tzou, Chia-Yu; Wurz, Peter

2014-11-01

The European Space Agency’s Rosetta spacecraft arrived after a journey of more than 10 years at comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko. ROSINA is an instrument package on board Rosetta. It consists of two mass spectrometers and a COmetary Pressure Sensor (COPS). The two mass spectrometers, the Double Focusing Mass Spectrometer (DFMS) and the Reflectron Time of Flight (RTOF) complement each other with high mass resolution (e.g to resolve 13C from CH), high dynamic range (to detect low abundant isotopes and species), high mass range (to detect organics), and high time resolution. ROSINA is designed to measure the neutral gas and plasma composition in the coma of 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko in addition to the physical properties of the neutral component of the coma. For the first time, a comet can be observed in situ from its early activity towards and after perihelion. Little is known about what drives initial cometary activity very far from the Sun. Remote sensing observations to date are highly constrained to a limited number of a few bright comets (e.g. Hale-Bopp) and a limited number of species. Rosetta provides the first measurements of the early activity of a comet in situ and detected the first cometary molecules early August. We will focus on early activity of cometary species from the high resolution mass spectrometer ROSINA/DFMS.

A high flux source of swift oxygen atoms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fink, M.; Kohl, D. A.; Keto, J. W.; Antoniewicz, P.

1987-01-01

A source of swift oxygen atoms is described which has several unique features. A high current ion beam is produced by a microwave discharge, accelerated to 10 keV and the mass selected by a modified Du Pont 21-110 mass spectrometer. The O(+) beam exciting the mass spectrometer is focused into a rectangular shape with an energy spread of less than 1 eV. The next section of the machine decelerates the ion beam into a counterpropagating electron beam in order to minimize space charge effects. After deceleration, the ion beam intersects at 90 deg, a neutral oxygen atom beam, which via resonant charge exchange produces a mixture of O(+) and O. Any remaining O(+) are swept out of the beam by an electric field and differentially pumped away while the desired O beam, collimated by slits, impinges on the target. In situ monitoring of the target surface is done by X-ray photoelectron or Auger spectroscopy. Faraday cups provide flux measurements in the ion sections while the neutral flux is determined by a special torsion balance or by a quadrupole mass spectrometer specially adapted for swift atoms. While the vacuum from the source through the mass spectrometer is maintained by diffusion pumps, the rest of the machine is UHV.

How Constant Momentum Acceleration Decouples Energy and Space Focusing in Distance-of-Flight and Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometries

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dennis, Elise; Gundlach-Graham, Alexander W.; Enke, Chris

2013-05-01

Time-of-flight (TOF) and distance-of-flight (DOF) mass spectrometers require means for focusing ions at the detector(s) because of initial dispersions of position and energy at the time of their acceleration. Time-of-flight mass spectrometers ordinarily employ constant energy acceleration (CEA), which creates a space-focus plane at which the initial spatial dispersion is corrected. In contrast, constant-momentum acceleration (CMA), in conjunction with an ion mirror, provides focus of the initial energy dispersion at the energy focus time for ions of all m/z at their respective positions along the flight path. With CEA, the initial energy dispersion is not simultaneously correctable as its effectmore » on ion velocity is convoluted with that of the spatial dispersion. The initial spatial dispersion with CMA remains unchanged throughout the field-free region of the flight path, so spatial dispersion can be reduced before acceleration. Improved focus is possible when each dispersion can be addressed independently. With minor modification, a TOF mass spectrometer can be operated in CMA mode by treating the TOF detector as though it were a single element in the array of detectors that would be used in a DOF mass spectrometer. Significant improvement in mass resolution is thereby achieved, albeit over a narrow range of m/z values. In this paper, experimental and theoretical results are presented that illustrate the energy-focusing capabilities of both DOF and TOF mass spectrometry.« less

The Degradation Behavior of SiCf/SiO2 Composites in High-Temperature Environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Xiang; Cao, Feng; Qing, Wang; Peng, Zhi-hang; Wang, Yi

2018-04-01

SiCf/SiO2 composites had been fabricated efficiently by Sol-Gel method. The oxidation behavior, thermal shock property and ablation behavior of SiCf/SiO2 composites was investigated. SiCf/SiO2 composites showed higher oxidation resistance in oxidation atmosphere, the flexural strength retention ratio was larger than 90.00%. After 1300 °C thermal shock, the mass retention ratio was 97.00%, and the flexural strength retention ratio was 92.60%, while after 1500 °C thermal shock, the mass retention ratio was 95.37%, and the flexural strength retention ratio was 83.34%. After 15 s ablation, the mass loss rate was 0.049 g/s and recession loss rate was 0.067 mm/s. The SiO2 matrix was melted in priority and becomes loosen and porous. With the ablation going on, the oxides were washed away by the shearing action of the oxyacetylene flame. The evaporation of SiO2 took away large amount of heat, which is also beneficial to the protection for SiCf/SiO2 composites.

U-Pb Dating of Unabraded Detrital Zircon Metamorphic Rims in the Nanaimo Basin, British Columbia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boivin, M. P.; Guest, B.; Matthews, W.

2016-12-01

Thin metamorphic rims on detrital zircons from the Nanaimo Basin in SW British Columbia offer a unique opportunity to further constrain the source of these zircons, helping to resolve the long standing Baja BC controversy. Here we present an analytical approach for dating thin zircon rims and use it to show that zircons from the Nanaimo Basin are most likely derived from metamorphic rocks in southern California. Conventional in-situ laser ablation sample preparation typically requires mounting and polishing zircon grains to expose their core. However, in order to date these thin metamorphic zircon rims a depth-profiling approach on unabraded grains was employed. Zircon grains from the Upper Cretaceous Geoffrey, Spray, and Gabriola formations of the Nanaimo Group exposed on Denman and Hornby Islands (British Columbia) were sorted into five groups based on morphology. The zircons were then mounted on tape along with several grains of a well-characterised zircon reference material to validate the uncertainty of the method. The zircons were then imaged using a Zygo Zescope optical profilometer in order to correct for grain-to-grain variations in elevation relative to mounting medium and ensure consistent laser focus. Backscatter electron images (BSE) were used to further characterised the grains and optimize the location of laser ablation targets. Zircons were ablated using a Resonetics 193 nm excimer laser and uranium and lead isotopic ratios were measured using an Agilent 7700 quadrupole mass spectrometer. A low frequency laser repetition rate extended the data collection period on relatively thin zircon rims. Our results show that metamorphic zircon growth occurred in two main phases at 100 Ma and 77 Ma suggesting two sources of detrital zircons with differing metamorphic histories were present in the catchment area. The timing of metamorphism of the source area for the Nanaimo basin is inconsistent with derivation from sources in the Rocky Mountains (Lemhi sub-basin of the Belt-Purcell basin) and consistent with derivation from Mojave-Sonoran region of southern California and northern Mexico. We speculate that some parts of the detrital zircon population of the Nanaimo basin sediments were likely derived from exhumed bodies of the Pelona, Orocopia and Rand schists.

The Zodiacal Cloud Model applied to the Martian atmosphere. Diurnal variations in meteoric ion layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carrillo-Sánchez, J. D.; Plane, J. M. C.; Withers, P.; Fallows, K.; Nesvorny, D.; Pokorný, P.

2016-12-01

Sporadic metal layers have been detected in the Martian atmosphere by radio occultation measurements using the Mars Express Orbiter and Mars Global Surveyor spacecraft. More recently, metallic ion layers produced by the meteor storm event following the close encounter between Comet Siding Spring (C/2013 A1) and Mars were identified by the Imaging UltraViolet Spectrograph (IUVS) and the Neutral Gas and Ion Mass Spectrometer (NGIMS) on the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN (MAVEN) spacecraft. Work is now in progress to detect the background metal layers produced by the influx of sporadic meteors. In this study we predict the likely appearance of these layers. The Zodiacal Dust Cloud (ZDC) model for particle populations released by asteroids (AST), and dust grains from Jupiter Family Comets (JFCs) and Halley-Type Comets (HTCs) has been combined with a Monte Carlo sampling method and the Chemical ABlation MODel (CABMOD) to predict the ablation rates of Na, K, Fe, Si, Mg, Ca and Al above 40 km altitude in the Martian atmosphere. CABMOD considers the standard treatment of meteor physics, including the balance of frictional heating by radiative losses and the absorption of heat energy through temperature increases, melting phase transitions and vaporization, as well as sputtering by inelastic collisions with the air molecules. The vertical injection profiles are input into the Leeds 1-D Mars atmospheric model which includes photo-ionization, and gas-phase ion-molecule and neutral chemistry, in order to explore the evolution of the resulting metallic ions and atoms. We conclude that the dominant contributor in the Martian's atmosphere is the JFCs over other sources. Finally, we explore the changes of the neutral and ionized Na, Mg and Fe layers over a diurnal cycle.

Analysis of solid uranium samples using a small mass spectrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kahr, Michael S.; Abney, Kent D.; Olivares, José A.

2001-07-01

A mass spectrometer for isotopic analysis of solid uranium samples has been constructed and evaluated. This system employs the fluorinating agent chlorine trifluoride (ClF 3) to convert solid uranium samples into their volatile uranium hexafluorides (UF 6). The majority of unwanted gaseous byproducts and remaining ClF 3 are removed from the sample vessel by condensing the UF 6 and then pumping away the unwanted gases. The UF 6 gas is then introduced into a quadrupole mass spectrometer and ionized by electron impact ionization. The doubly charged bare metal uranium ion (U 2+) is used to determine the U 235/U 238 isotopic ratio. Precision and accuracy for several isotopic standards were found to be better than 12%, without further calibration of the system. The analysis can be completed in 25 min from sample loading, to UF 6 reaction, to mass spectral analysis. The method is amenable to uranium solid matrices, and other actinides.

Desorption atmospheric pressure photoionization-mass spectrometry in routine analysis of confiscated drugs.

PubMed

Kauppila, Tiina J; Flink, Anu; Haapala, Markus; Laakkonen, Ulla-Maija; Aalberg, Laura; Ketola, Raimo A; Kostiainen, Risto

2011-07-15

A comprehensive study was made, where desorption atmospheric pressure photoionization (DAPPI) was applied to the direct analysis of confiscated drugs and pharmaceuticals of various forms and matrices. The analyzed samples included herbal products [Catha edulis (khat), Psilocybe mushrooms, opium and Spice], designer drugs in tablet and powder form [e.g. meta-chlorophenylpiperazine (mCPP), 3-fluoromethamphetamine (3-FMA), methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) and methylone], and anabolic steroids in oil and tablets. The analyses were performed with ion trap mass spectrometer in MS and MS(2) modes and the obtained spectra were compared with GC-MS results. Contamination of the mass spectrometer was avoided by careful adjustment of the distance of the sample from the mass spectrometer inlet. DAPPI proved to be a fast and specific analysis technique, which does not require any sample preparation, and which therefore suits well to this type of forensic analysis. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Balloon-borne photoionization mass spectrometer for measurement of stratospheric gases

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Aikin, A. C.; Maier, E. J. R.

1978-01-01

A balloon-borne photoionization mass spectrometer used to measure stratospheric trace gases is described. Ions are created with photons from high-intensity krypton discharge lamps and a quadrupole mass analyzer is employed for ion identification. Differential pumping is achieved with liquid helium cryopumping. To insure measurement of unperturbed stratospheric air, the entire system is contained in a sealed gondola and the atmospheric sample is taken some distance away during descent. The photoionization technique allows the detection of a low ionization potential constituent, such as nitric oxide, at less than a part in one billion in the presence of the major atmospheric gases and their isotopes. Operation of the mass spectrometer system was demonstrated during a daytime flight from Palestine, Texas on 26 April 1977. The sensitivity achieved and the unique selectivity afforded by this technique offer a capability for trace constituent measurement not possible with the more conventional electron impact ionization approach.

Mass spectrometer measurements of test gas composition in a shock tunnel

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Skinner, K. A.; Stalker, R. J.

1995-01-01

Shock tunnels afford a means of generating hypersonic flow at high stagnation enthalpies, but they have the disadvantage that thermochemical effects make the composition of the test flow different to that of ambient air. The composition can be predicted by numerical calculations of the nozzle flow expansion, using simplified thermochemical models and, in the absence of experimental measurements, it has been necessary to accept the results given by these calculations. This note reports measurements of test gas composition, at stagnation enthalpies up to 12.5 MJ.kg(exp -1), taken with a time-of-flight mass spectrometer. Limited results have been obtained in previous measurements. These were taken at higher stagnation enthalpies, and used a quadruple mass spectrometer. The time-of-flight method was preferred here because it enabled a number of complete mass spectra to be obtained in each test, and because it gives good mass resolution over the range of interest with air (up to 50 a.m.a.).

Determinations of rare earth element abundance and U-Pb age of zircons using multispot laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Yokoyama, Takaomi D; Suzuki, Toshihiro; Kon, Yoshiaki; Hirata, Takafumi

2011-12-01

We have developed a new calibration technique for multielement determination and U-Pb dating of zircon samples using laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICPMS) coupled with galvanometric optics. With the galvanometric optics, laser ablation of two or more sample materials could be achieved in very short time intervals (~10 ms). The resulting sample aerosols released from different ablation pits or different solid samples were mixed and homogenized within the sample cell and then transported into the ICP ion source. Multiple spot laser ablation enables spiking of analytes or internal standard elements directly into the solid samples, and therefore the standard addition calibration method can be applied for the determination of trace elements in solid samples. In this study, we have measured the rare earth element (REE) abundances of two zircon samples (Nancy 91500 and Prešovice) based on the standard addition technique, using a direct spiking of analytes through a multispot laser ablation of the glass standard material (NIST SRM612). The resulting REE abundance data show good agreement with previously reported values within analytical uncertainties achieved in this study (10% for most elements). Our experiments demonstrated that nonspectroscopic interferences on 14 REEs could be significantly reduced by the standard addition technique employed here. Another advantage of galvanometric devices is the accumulation of sample aerosol released from multiple spots. In this study we have measured the U-Pb age of a zircon sample (LMR) using an accumulation of sample aerosols released from 10 separate ablation pits of low diameters (~8 μm). The resulting (238)U-(206)Pb age data for the LMR zircons was 369 ± 64 Ma, which is in good agreement with previously reported age data (367.6 ± 1.5 Ma). (1) The data obtained here clearly demonstrate that the multiple spot laser ablation-ICPMS technique can become a powerful approach for elemental and isotopic ratio measurements in solid materials.

Assessment of Atrial Fibrillation and Vulnerability in Patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome Using Two-Dimensional Speckle Tracking Echocardiography

PubMed Central

Li, Jing-Jie; Wei, Fang; Chen, Ju-Gang; Yu, Yan-Wei; Gu, Hong-Yue; Jiang, Rui; Wu, Xiu-Li; Sun, Qian

2014-01-01

Purpose The aim was to assess atrial fibrillation (AF) and vulnerability in Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome patients using two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE). Methods All patients were examined via transthoracic echocardiography and 2D-STE in order to assess atrial function 7 days before and 10 days after RF catheter ablation. A postoperative 3-month follow-up was performed via outpatient visit or telephone calls. Results Results showed significant differences in both body mass index (BMI) and supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) duration between WPW patients and DAVNP patients (both P<0.05). Echocardiography revealed that the maximum left atrial volume (LAVmax) and the left ventricular mass index (LVMI) in diastole increased noticeably in patients with WPW compared to patients with DAVNP both before and after ablation (all P<0.05). Before ablation, there were obvious differences in the levels of SRs, SRe, and SRa from the 4-chamber view (LA) in the WPW patients group compared with patients in the DAVNP group (all P<0.05). In the AF group, there were significant differences in the levels of systolic strain rate (SRs), early diastolic strain rate (SRe), and late diastolic strain rate (SRa) from the 4-chamber view (LA) both before and after ablation (all P<0.05). In the non-AF group, there were decreased SRe levels from the 4-chamber view (LA/RA) pre-ablation compared to post-ablation (all P<0.05). Conclusion Our findings provide convincing evidence that WPW syndrome may result in increased atrial vulnerability and contribute to the development of AF. Further, RF catheter ablation of AAV pathway can potentially improve atrial function in WPW syndrome patients. Two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography imaging in WPW patients would be necessary in the evaluation and improvement of the overall function of RF catheter ablation in a long-term follow-up period. PMID:25397668

Assessment of atrial fibrillation and vulnerability in patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome using two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography.

PubMed

Li, Jing-Jie; Wei, Fang; Chen, Ju-Gang; Yu, Yan-Wei; Gu, Hong-Yue; Jiang, Rui; Wu, Xiu-Li; Sun, Qian

2014-01-01

The aim was to assess atrial fibrillation (AF) and vulnerability in Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome patients using two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE). All patients were examined via transthoracic echocardiography and 2D-STE in order to assess atrial function 7 days before and 10 days after RF catheter ablation. A postoperative 3-month follow-up was performed via outpatient visit or telephone calls. Results showed significant differences in both body mass index (BMI) and supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) duration between WPW patients and DAVNP patients (both P<0.05). Echocardiography revealed that the maximum left atrial volume (LAVmax) and the left ventricular mass index (LVMI) in diastole increased noticeably in patients with WPW compared to patients with DAVNP both before and after ablation (all P<0.05). Before ablation, there were obvious differences in the levels of SRs, SRe, and SRa from the 4-chamber view (LA) in the WPW patients group compared with patients in the DAVNP group (all P<0.05). In the AF group, there were significant differences in the levels of systolic strain rate (SRs), early diastolic strain rate (SRe), and late diastolic strain rate (SRa) from the 4-chamber view (LA) both before and after ablation (all P<0.05). In the non-AF group, there were decreased SRe levels from the 4-chamber view (LA/RA) pre-ablation compared to post-ablation (all P<0.05). Our findings provide convincing evidence that WPW syndrome may result in increased atrial vulnerability and contribute to the development of AF. Further, RF catheter ablation of AAV pathway can potentially improve atrial function in WPW syndrome patients. Two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography imaging in WPW patients would be necessary in the evaluation and improvement of the overall function of RF catheter ablation in a long-term follow-up period.

Investigation of trailing mass in Z-pinch implosions and comparison to experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Edmund

2007-11-01

Wire-array Z pinches represent efficient, high-power x-ray sources with application to inertial confinement fusion, high energy density plasmas, and laboratory astrophysics. The first stage of a wire-array Z pinch is described by a mass ablation phase, during which stationary wires cook off material, which is then accelerated radially inwards by the JxB force. The mass injection rate varies axially and azimuthally, so that once the ablation phase concludes, the subsequent implosion is highly 3D in nature. In particular, a network of trailing mass and current is left behind the imploding plasma sheath, which can significantly affect pinch performance. In this work we focus on the implosion phase, electing to model the mass ablation via a mass injection scheme. Such a scheme has a number of injection parameters, but this freedom also allows us to gain understanding into the nature of the trailing mass network. For instance, a new result illustrates the role of azimuthal correlation. For an implosion which is 100% azimuthally correlated (corresponding to an azimuthally symmetric 2D r-z problem), current is forced to flow on the imploding plasma sheath, resulting in strong Rayleigh-Taylor (RT) growth. If, however, the implosion is not azimuthally symmetric, the additional azimuthal degree of freedom opens up new conducting paths of lower magnetic energy through the trailing mass network, effectively reducing RT growth. Consequently the 3D implosion experiences lower RT growth than the 2D r-z equivalent, and actually results in a more shell-like implosion. A second major goal of this work is to constrain the injection parameters by comparison to a well-diagnosed experimental data set, in which array mass was varied. In collaboration with R. Lemke, M. Desjarlais, M. Cuneo, C. Jennings, D. Sinars, E. Waisman

Ion separation effects in mixed-species ablators for inertial-confinement-fusion implosions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amendt, Peter; Bellei, Claudio; Ross, J. Steven; Salmonson, Jay

2015-02-01

Recent efforts to demonstrate significant self-heating of the fuel and eventual ignition at the National Ignition Facility make use of plastic (CH) ablators [O. A. Hurricane et al., Phys. Plasmas 21, 056314 (2014), 10.1063/1.4874330]. Mainline simulation techniques for modeling CH capsule implosions treat the ablator as an average-atom fluid and neglect potential species separation phenomena. The mass-ablation process for a mixture is shown to lead to the potential for species separation, parasitic energy loss according to thermodynamic arguments, and reduced rocket efficiency. A generalized plasma barometric formula for a multispecies concentration gradient that includes collisionality and steady flows in spherical geometry is presented. A model based on plasma expansion into a vacuum is used to interpret reported experimental evidence for ablator species separation in an inertial-confinement-fusion target [J. S. Ross et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. 83, 10E323 (2012)]. The possibility of "runaway" hydrogen ions in the thermoelectric field of the ablation front is conjectured.

Chemical nonequilibrium Navier-Stokes solutions for hypersonic flow over an ablating graphite nosetip

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chen, Y. K.; Henline, W. D.

1993-01-01

The general boundary conditions including mass and energy balances of chemically equilibrated or nonequilibrated gas adjacent to ablating surfaces have been derived. A computer procedure based on these conditions was developed and interfaced with the Navier-Stokes solver for predictions of the flow field, surface temperature, and surface ablation rates over re-entry space vehicles with ablating Thermal Protection Systems (TPS). The Navier-Stokes solver with general surface thermochemistry boundary conditions can predict more realistic solutions and provide useful information for the design of TPS. A test case with a proposed hypersonic test vehicle configuration and associated free stream conditions was developed. Solutions with various surface boundary conditions were obtained, and the effect of nonequilibrium gas as well as surface chemistry on surface heating and ablation rate were examined. The solutions of the GASP code with complete ablating surface conditions were compared with those of the ASC code. The direction of future work is also discussed.

Ion separation effects in mixed-species ablators for inertial-confinement-fusion implosions.

PubMed

Amendt, Peter; Bellei, Claudio; Ross, J Steven; Salmonson, Jay

2015-02-01

Recent efforts to demonstrate significant self-heating of the fuel and eventual ignition at the National Ignition Facility make use of plastic (CH) ablators [O. A. Hurricane et al., Phys. Plasmas 21, 056314 (2014)]. Mainline simulation techniques for modeling CH capsule implosions treat the ablator as an average-atom fluid and neglect potential species separation phenomena. The mass-ablation process for a mixture is shown to lead to the potential for species separation, parasitic energy loss according to thermodynamic arguments, and reduced rocket efficiency. A generalized plasma barometric formula for a multispecies concentration gradient that includes collisionality and steady flows in spherical geometry is presented. A model based on plasma expansion into a vacuum is used to interpret reported experimental evidence for ablator species separation in an inertial-confinement-fusion target [J. S. Ross et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. 83, 10E323 (2012)]. The possibility of "runaway" hydrogen ions in the thermoelectric field of the ablation front is conjectured.

Deposition and element fractionation processes during atmospheric pressure laser sampling for analysis by ICP-MS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eggins, S. M.; Kinsley, L. P. J.; Shelley, J. M. G.

1998-05-01

We have used an ArF excimer laser coupled to a quadrupole inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for the measurement of a range of elements during excavation of a deepening ablation pit in a synthetic glass (NIST 612). Analyte behaviour shows progressive volatile element enrichment at shallow hole depths, with a change to refractory element enrichment as the ablation pit deepens further. Examination of ablation pit morphology and the surface condensate deposited around the ablation site reveals the importance of sequential condensation of refractory, then volatile phases from the cooling plasma plume after the end of the laser pulse. We interpret the observed element fractionation behaviour to reflect a change in ablation processes from photothermal dominated to plasma dominated mechanisms. The development of the surface deposit is greatly reduced by ablating in an ambient atmosphere of He instead of Ar and is accompanied by a two- to four-fold increase in ICP-MS sensitivity.

Mass Spectrometry as a Powerful Analytical Technique for the Structural Characterization of Synthesized and Natural Products

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Es-Safi, Nour-Eddine; Essassi, El Mokhtar; Massoui, Mohamed; Banoub, Joseph

Mass spectrometry is an important tool for the identification and structural elucidation of natural and synthesized compounds. Its high sensitivity and the possibility of coupling liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry detection make it a technique of choice for the investigation of complex mixtures like raw natural extracts. The mass spectrometer is a universal detector that can achieve very high sensitivity and provide information on the molecular mass. More detailed information can be subsequently obtained by resorting to collision-induced dissociation tandem mass spectrometry (CID-MS/MS). In this review, the application of mass spectrometric techniques for the identification of natural and synthetic compounds is presented. The gas-phase fragmentation patterns of a series of four natural flavonoid glycosides, three synthesized benzodiazepines and two synthesized quinoxalinone derivatives were investigated using electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) and tandem mass spectrometry techniques. Exact accurate masses were measured using a modorate resolution quadrupole orthogonal time-of-flight QqTOF-MS/MS hybrid mass spectrometer instrument. Confirmation of the molecular masses and the chemical structures of the studied compounds were achieved by exploring the gas-phase breakdown routes of the ionized molecules. This was rationalized by conducting low-energy collision CID-MS/MS analyses (product ion- and precursor ion scans) using a conventional quadrupole hexapole-quadrupole (QhQ) tandem mass spectrometer.

Preconditioned wire array Z-pinches driven by a double pulse current generator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Jian; Lu, Yihan; Sun, Fengju; Li, Xingwen; Jiang, Xiaofeng; Wang, Zhiguo; Zhang, Daoyuan; Qiu, Aici; Lebedev, Sergey

2018-07-01

Suppression of the core-corona structure and wire ablation in wire array Z-pinches is investigated using a novel double pulse current generator ‘Qin-1’ facility. The ‘Qin-1’ facility allows coupling a ∼10 kA 20 ns prepulse generator with a ∼0.8 MA 160 ns main current generator. The tailored prepulse current preheats wires to a gaseous state and the time interval between the prepulse and the main current pulse allows formation of a more uniform mass distribution for the implosion. The implosion of a gasified two aluminum-wire array showed no ablation phase and allowed all array mass to participate in the implosion. The initial perturbations formed from the inhomogeneous ablation were suppressed, however, the magneto Rayleigh–Taylor (MRT) instability during the implosion was still significant and further researches on the generation and development of the MRT instabilities of this gasified wire array are needed.

Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry measurement of isotope ratios in depleted uranium contaminated soils.

PubMed

Seltzer, Michael D

2003-09-01

Laser ablation of pressed soil pellets was examined as a means of direct sample introduction to enable inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) screening of soils for residual depleted uranium (DU) contamination. Differentiation between depleted uranium, an anthropogenic contaminant, and naturally occurring uranium was accomplished on the basis of measured 235U/238U isotope ratios. The amount of sample preparation required for laser ablation is considerably less than that typically required for aqueous sample introduction. The amount of hazardous laboratory waste generated is diminished accordingly. During the present investigation, 235U/238U isotope ratios measured for field samples were in good agreement with those derived from gamma spectrometry measurements. However, substantial compensation was required to mitigate the effects of impaired pulse counting attributed to sample inhomogeneity and sporadic introduction of uranium analyte into the plasma.

Naphthalene Planar Laser-Induced Fluorescence Imaging of Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle Heat Shield Ablation Products

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Combs, Christopher S.; Clemens, Noel T.; Danehy, Paul M.

2013-11-01

The Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV) calls for an ablative heat shield. In order to better design this heat shield and others that will undergo planetary entry, an improved understanding of the ablation process is required. Given that ablation is a multi-physics process involving heat and mass transfer, codes aiming to predict heat shield ablation are in need of experimental data pertaining to the turbulent transport of ablation products for validation. At The University of Texas at Austin, a technique is being developed that uses planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF) of a low-temperature sublimating ablator (naphthalene) to visualize the transport of ablation products in a supersonic flow. Since ablation at reentry temperatures can be difficult to recreate in a laboratory setting it is desirable to create a limited physics problem and simulate the ablation process at relatively low temperature conditions using naphthalene. A scaled Orion MPCV model with a solid naphthalene heat shield has been tested in a Mach 5 wind tunnel at various angles of attack in the current work. PLIF images have shown high concentrations of scalar in the capsule wake region, intermittent turbulent structures on the heat shield surface, and interesting details of the capsule shear layer structure. This work was supported by a NASA Office of the Chief Technologist's Space Technology Research Fellowship (NNX11AN55H).

N-cadherin Regulation of Bone Growth and Homeostasis is Osteolineage Stage-Specific

PubMed Central

Fontana, Francesca; Hickman-Brecks, Cynthia L.; Salazar, Valerie S.; Revollo, Leila; Abou-Ezzi, Grazia; Grimston, Susan K.; Jeong, Sung Yeop; Watkins, Marcus; Fortunato, Manuela; Alippe, Yael; Link, Daniel C.; Mbalaviele, Gabriel; Civitelli, Roberto

2017-01-01

N-cadherin inhibits osteogenic cell differentiation and canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling in vitro. However, in vivo both conditional Cdh2 ablation and overexpression in osteoblasts lead to low bone mass. We tested the hypothesis that N-cadherin has different effects on osteolineage cells depending upon their differentiation stage. Embryonic conditional osteolineage Cdh2 deletion in mice results in defective growth, low bone mass and reduced osteoprogenitor number. These abnormalities are prevented by delaying Cdh2 ablation until 1 month of age, thus targeting only committed and mature osteoblasts, suggesting they are the consequence of N-cadherin deficiency in osteoprogenitors. Indeed, diaphyseal trabecularization actually increases when Cdh2 is ablated postnatally. The sclerostin-insensitive Lrp5A214V mutant, associated with high bone mass, does not rescue the growth defect, but it overrides the low bone mass of embryonically Cdh2 deleted mice, suggesting N-cadherin interacts with Wnt signaling to control bone mass. Finally, bone accrual and β-catenin accumulation after administration of an anti-Dkk1 antibody are enhanced in N-cadherin deficient mice. Thus, while lack of N-cadherin in embryonic and perinatal age is detrimental to bone growth and bone accrual, in adult mice loss of N-cadherin in osteolineage cells favors bone formation. Hence, N-cadherin inhibition may widen the therapeutic window of osteoanabolic agents. PMID:28240364

Parametric Study of an Ablative TPS and Hot Structure Heatshield for a Mars Entry Capsule Vehicle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Langston, Sarah L.; Lang, Christapher G.; Samareh, Jamshid A.

2017-01-01

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration is planning to send humans to Mars. As part of the Evolvable Mars Campaign, different en- try vehicle configurations are being designed and considered for delivering larger payloads than have been previously sent to the surface of Mars. Mass and packing volume are driving factors in the vehicle design, and the thermal protection for planetary entry is an area in which advances in technology can offer potential mass and volume savings. The feasibility and potential benefits of a carbon-carbon hot structure concept for a Mars entry vehicle is explored in this paper. The windward heat shield of a capsule design is assessed for the hot structure concept as well as an ablative thermal protection system (TPS) attached to a honeycomb sandwich structure. Independent thermal and structural analyses are performed to determine the minimum mass design. The analyses are repeated for a range of design parameters, which include the trajectory, vehicle size, and payload. Polynomial response functions are created from the analysis results to study the capsule mass with respect to the design parameters. Results from the polynomial response functions created from the thermal and structural analyses indicate that the mass of the capsule was higher for the hot structure concept as compared to the ablative TPS for the parameter space considered in this study.

Development and Evaluation of a Reverse-Entry Ion Source Orbitrap Mass Spectrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Poltash, Michael L.; McCabe, Jacob W.; Patrick, John W.; Laganowsky, Arthur; Russell, David H.

2018-05-01

As a step towards development of a high-resolution ion mobility mass spectrometer using the orbitrap mass analyzer platform, we describe herein a novel reverse-entry ion source (REIS) coupled to the higher-energy C-trap dissociation (HCD) cell of an orbitrap mass spectrometer with extended mass range. Development of the REIS is a first step in the development of a drift tube ion mobility-orbitrap MS. The REIS approach retains the functionality of the commercial instrument ion source which permits the uninterrupted use of the instrument during development as well as performance comparisons between the two ion sources. Ubiquitin (8.5 kDa) and lipid binding to the ammonia transport channel (AmtB, 126 kDa) protein complex were used as model soluble and membrane proteins, respectively, to evaluate the performance of the REIS instrument. Mass resolution obtained with the REIS is comparable to that obtained using the commercial ion source. The charge state distributions for ubiquitin and AmtB obtained on the REIS are in agreement with previous studies which suggests that the REIS-orbitrap EMR retains native structure in the gas phase.

Measurement of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAHs) in interplanetary dust particles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Clemett, S. J.; Maechling, C. R.; Zare, R. N.; Swan, P. D.; Walker, R. M.

1993-01-01

We report here the first definitive measurements of specific organic molecules (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH's)) in interplanetary dust particles (IDP's). An improved version of the microbeam-two-step laser mass spectrometer was used for the analysis. Two IDP's gave similar mass spectra showing an abundance of PAH's. Control samples, including particles of probable terrestrial origin from the same stratospheric collector, gave either null results or quite different spectra. We conclude that the PAH's are probably indigenous to the IDP's and are not terrestrial contaminants. The instrument used to study the particles is a two-step laser mass spectrometer. Constituent neutral molecules of the sample are first desorbed with a pulsed infrared laser beam focussed to 40 micrometers. In the second step, PAH's in the desorbed plume are preferentially ionized by a pulsed UV laser beam. Resulting ions produced by resonant absorption are extracted into a reflectron time-of-flight mass spectrometer. This instrument has high spatial resolution, high ion transmission, unlimited mass range, and multichannel detection of all ion masses from a single laser shot.

Method of multiplexed analysis using ion mobility spectrometer

DOEpatents

Belov, Mikhail E [Richland, WA; Smith, Richard D [Richland, WA

2009-06-02

A method for analyzing analytes from a sample introduced into a Spectrometer by generating a pseudo random sequence of a modulation bins, organizing each modulation bin as a series of submodulation bins, thereby forming an extended pseudo random sequence of submodulation bins, releasing the analytes in a series of analyte packets into a Spectrometer, thereby generating an unknown original ion signal vector, detecting the analytes at a detector, and characterizing the sample using the plurality of analyte signal subvectors. The method is advantageously applied to an Ion Mobility Spectrometer, and an Ion Mobility Spectrometer interfaced with a Time of Flight Mass Spectrometer.

The Argon Geochronology Experiment (AGE)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Swindle, T. D.; Bode, R.; Fennema, A.; Chutjian, A.; MacAskill, J. A.; Darrach, M. R.; Clegg, S. M.; Wiens, R. C.; Cremers, D.

2006-01-01

This viewgraph presentation reviews the Argon Geochronology Experiment (AGE). Potassium-Argon dating is shown along with cosmic ray dating exposure. The contents include a flow diagram of the Argon Geochronology Experiment, and schematic diagrams of the mass spectrometer vacuum system, sample manipulation mechanism, mineral heater oven, and the quadrupole ion trap mass spectrometer. The Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) Operation with elemental abundances is also described.

Gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer (GC/MS) system for quantitative analysis of reactive chemical compounds

DOEpatents

Grindstaff, Quirinus G.

1992-01-01

Described is a new gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer (GC/MS) system and method for quantitative analysis of reactive chemical compounds. All components of such a GC/MS system external to the oven of the gas chromatograph are programmably temperature controlled to operate at a volatilization temperature specific to the compound(s) sought to be separated and measured.

Biological particle analysis by mass spectrometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vilker, V. L.; Platz, R. M.

1983-01-01

An instrument that analyzes the chemical composition of biological particles in aerosol or hydrosol form was developed. Efforts were directed toward the acquisition of mass spectra from aerosols of biomolecules and bacteria. The filament ion source was installed on the particle analysis by mass spectrometry system. Modifications of the vacuum system improved the sensitivity of the mass spectrometer. After the modifications were incorporated, detailed mass spectra of simple compounds from the three major classes of biomolecules, proteins, nucleic acids, and carbohydrates were obtained. A method of generating bacterial aerosols was developed. The aerosols generated were collected and examined in the scanning electron microscope to insure that the bacteria delivered to the mass spectrometer were intact and free from debris.

Expert overseer for mass spectrometer system

DOEpatents

Filby, Evan E.; Rankin, Richard A.

1991-01-01

An expert overseer for the operation and real-time management of a mass spectrometer and associated laboratory equipment. The overseer is a computer-based expert diagnostic system implemented on a computer separate from the dedicated computer used to control the mass spectrometer and produce the analysis results. An interface links the overseer to components of the mass spectrometer, components of the laboratory support system, and the dedicated control computer. Periodically, the overseer polls these devices and as well as itself. These data are fed into an expert portion of the system for real-time evaluation. A knowledge base used for the evaluation includes both heuristic rules and precise operation parameters. The overseer also compares current readings to a long-term database to detect any developing trends using a combination of statistical and heuristic rules to evaluate the results. The overseer has the capability to alert lab personnel whenever questionable readings or trends are observed and provide a background review of the problem and suggest root causes and potential solutions, or appropriate additional tests that could be performed. The overseer can change the sequence or frequency of the polling to respond to an observation in the current data.

Mass spectrometer characterization of halogen gases in air at atmospheric pressure.

PubMed

Ivey, Michelle M; Foster, Krishna L

2005-03-01

We have developed a new interface for a commercial ion trap mass spectrometer equipped with APCI capable of real-time measurements of gaseous compounds with limits of detection on the order of pptv. The new interface has been tested using the detection of Br2 and Cl2 over synthetic seawater ice at atmospheric pressure as a model system. A mechanical pump is used to draw gaseous mixtures through a glass manifold into the corona discharge area, where the molecules are ionized. Analysis of bromine and chlorine in dry air show that ion intensity is affected by the pumping rate and the position of the glass manifold. The mass spectrometer signals for Br2 are linear in the 0.1-10.6 ppbv range, and the estimated 3sigma detection limit is 20 pptv. The MS signals for Cl2 are linear in the 0.2-25 ppbv range, and the estimated 3sigma detection limit is 1 ppbv. This new interface advances the field of analytical chemistry by introducing a practical modification to a commercially available ion trap mass spectrometer that expands the available methods for performing highly specific and sensitive measurements of gases in air at atmospheric pressure.

Mass Spectrometry in the Home and Garden

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pulliam, Christopher J.; Bain, Ryan M.; Wiley, Joshua S.; Ouyang, Zheng; Cooks, R. Graham

2015-02-01

Identification of active components in a variety of chemical products used directly by consumers is described at both trace and bulk levels using mass spectrometry. The combination of external ambient ionization with a portable mass spectrometer capable of tandem mass spectrometry provides high chemical specificity and sensitivity as well as allowing on-site monitoring. These experiments were done using a custom-built portable ion trap mass spectrometer in combination with the ambient ionization methods of paper spray, leaf spray, and low temperature plasma ionization. Bactericides, garden chemicals, air fresheners, and other products were examined. Herbicide applied to suburban lawns was detected in situ on single leaves 5 d after application.

The interaction of O(plus) ions with the interior surface of a copper chamber

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Siegel, M. W.; Boring, J. W.

1971-01-01

Modulated beams of 0(+), Ar(+), and Kr(+) in the 100-300 eV range are directed into a copper box simulating the ante-chamber of an orbiting mass spectrometer. An RF quadrupole mass spectrometer and phase sensitive detection extract the component of the internal mass spectrum correlated with the beam. Intense Ar and Kr signals are observed; however, no O or O2 is detectable, indicating loss of the primary O(+) beam to surface interactions. All four primary ions stimulate sizeable signals at masses 26 and 28. The relevance of these experiments to the interpretation of mass spectra obtained by orbiting satellites is discussed.

Quadrupole Ion Mass Spectrometer for Masses of 2 to 50 Da

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Helms, William; Griffin, Timothy P.; Ottens, Andrew; Harrison, Willard

2005-01-01

A customized quadrupole ion-trap mass spectrometer (QITMS) has been built to satisfy a need for a compact, rugged instrument for measuring small concentrations of hydrogen, helium, oxygen, and argon in a nitrogen atmosphere. This QITMS can also be used to perform quantitative analyses of other gases within its molecular-mass range, which is 2 to 50 daltons (Da). (More precisely, it can be used to perform quantitative analysis of gases that, when ionized, are characterized by m/Z ratios between 2 and 50, where m is the mass of an ion in daltons and Z is the number of fundamental electric charges on the ion.

Desorption in Mass Spectrometry

PubMed Central

Usmanov, Dilshadbek Tursunbayevich; Ninomiya, Satoshi; Chen, Lee Chuin; Saha, Subhrakanti; Mandal, Mridul Kanti; Sakai, Yuji; Takaishi, Rio; Habib, Ahsan; Hiraoka, Kenzo; Yoshimura, Kentaro; Takeda, Sen; Wada, Hiroshi; Nonami, Hiroshi

2017-01-01

In mass spectrometry, analytes must be released in the gas phase. There are two representative methods for the gasification of the condensed samples, i.e., ablation and desorption. While ablation is based on the explosion induced by the energy accumulated in the condensed matrix, desorption is a single molecular process taking place on the surface. In this paper, desorption methods for mass spectrometry developed in our laboratory: flash heating/rapid cooling, Leidenfrost phenomenon-assisted thermal desorption (LPTD), solid/solid friction, liquid/solid friction, electrospray droplet impact (EDI) ionization/desorption, and probe electrospray ionization (PESI), will be described. All the methods are concerned with the surface and interface phenomena. The concept of how to desorb less-volatility compounds from the surface will be discussed. PMID:28337398

Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry Interface for Detection of Extraterrestrial Organics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Southard, Adrian E.; Getty, Stephanie A.; Balvin, Manuel; Cook, Jamie E.; Espiritu, Ana Mellina; Kotecki, Carl; Towner, Deborah W.; Dworkin, J. P.; Glavin, Daniel P.; Mahaffy, Paul R.;

MASS SPECTROMETRY

DOEpatents

Nier, A.O.C.

1959-08-25

A voltage switching apparatus is described for use with a mass spectrometer in the concentratron analysis of several components of a gas mixture. The system automatically varies the voltage on the accelerating electrode of the mass spectrometer through a program of voltages which corresponds to the particular gas components under analysis. Automatic operation may be discontinued at any time to permit the operator to manually select any desired predetermined accelerating voltage. Further, the system may be manually adjusted to vary the accelerating voltage over a wide range.

Wire ablation dynamics model and its application to imploding wire arrays of different geometries.

PubMed

Esaulov, A A; Kantsyrev, V L; Safronova, A S; Velikovich, A L; Shrestha, I K; Williamson, K M; Osborne, G C

2012-10-01

The paper presents an extended description of the amplified wire ablation dynamics model (WADM), which accounts in a single simulation for the processes of wire ablation and implosion of a wire array load of arbitrary geometry and wire material composition. To investigate the role of wire ablation effects, the implosions of cylindrical and planar wire array loads at the university based generators Cobra (Cornell University) and Zebra (University of Nevada, Reno) have been analyzed. The analysis of the experimental data shows that the wire mass ablation rate can be described as a function of the current through the wire and some coefficient defined by the wire material properties. The aluminum wires were found to ablate with the highest rate, while the copper ablation is the slowest one. The lower wire ablation rate results in a higher inward velocity of the ablated plasma, a higher rate of the energy coupling with the ablated plasma, and a more significant delay of implosion for a heavy load due to the ablation effects, which manifest the most in a cylindrical array configuration and almost vanish in a single-planar array configuration. The WADM is an efficient tool suited for wire array load design and optimization in wide parameter ranges, including the loads with specific properties needed for the inertial confinement fusion research and laboratory astrophysics experiments. The data output from the WADM simulation can be used to simplify the radiation magnetohydrodynamics modeling of the wire array plasma.

Ablative and transport fractionation of trace elements during laser sampling of glass and copper

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Outridge, P. M.; Doherty, W.; Gregoire, D. C.

1997-12-01

The fractionation of trace elements due to ablation and transport processes was quantified during Q-switched infrared laser sampling of glass and copper reference materials. Filter-trapping of the ablated product at different points in the sample introduction system showed ablation and transport sometimes caused opposing fractionation effects, leading to a confounded measure of overall (ablative + transport) fractionation. An unexpected result was the greater ablative fractionation of some elements (Au, Ag, Bi, Te in glass and Au, Be, Bi, Ni, Te in copper) at a higher laser fluence of 1.35 × 10 4W cm -2 than at 0.62 × 10 4W cm -2, which contradicted predictions from modelling studies of ablation processes. With glass, there was an inverse logarithmic relationship between the extent of ablative and overall fractionation and element oxide melting point (OMPs), with elements with OMPs < 1000° C exhibiting overall concentration increases of 20-1340%. Fractionation during transport was quantitatively important for most certified elements in copper, and for the most volatile elements (Au, Ag, Bi, Te) in glass. Elements common to both matrices showed 50-100% higher ablative fractionation in copper, possibly because of greater heat conductance away from the ablation site causing increased element volatilisation or zone refinement. These differences between matrices indicate that non-matrix-matched standardisation is likely to provide inaccurate calibration of laser ablation inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry analyses of at least some elements.

The influence of residual apixaban on bleeding complications during and after catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation.

PubMed

Mukai, Yutaro; Wada, Kyoichi; Miyamoto, Koji; Nakagita, Kazuki; Fujimoto, Mai; Hosomi, Kouichi; Kuwahara, Takeshi; Takada, Mitsutaka; Kusano, Kengo; Oita, Akira

2017-10-01

The periprocedural protocol for atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation commonly includes anticoagulation therapy. Apixaban, a direct oral anticoagulant, is currently approved for clinical use; however, little is known about the effects of residual apixaban concentration on bleeding complications during/after AF ablation. Therefore, we measured residual apixaban concentration by using mass spectrometry and examined the anticoagulant's residual effects on bleeding complications. Fifty-eight patients (Mean age of 64.7±12.5 years; 31 males, 27 females) were enrolled and administered apixaban twice daily. We analyzed trough apixaban concentration, activated clotting time (ACT), heparin dose, and bleeding complications during/after AF ablation. Apixaban concentrations were directly measured using mass spectrometry. Bleeding complications were observed in 19 patients (delayed hemostasis at the puncture site, 16; hematuria, 3; hemosputum, 1). No patient required blood transfusion. The mean trough apixaban concentration was significantly lower in patients with bleeding complications than without (152.4±73.1 vs. 206.8±98.8 ng/mL respectively, P =0.037), while the heparin dose to achieve ACT>300 s was significantly higher in patients with bleeding complications (9368.4±2929.0 vs. 7987.2±2135.2 U/body respectively, P =0.046). Interestingly, a negative correlation was found between the trough apixaban concentration and the heparin dose to achieve ACT>300 s ( P =0.033, R=-0.281). Low residual plasma apixaban is associated with a higher incidence of bleeding complications during/after AF ablation, potentially because of a greater heparin requirement during AF ablation.

Wide range scaling laws for radiation driven shock speed, wall albedo and ablation parameters for high-Z materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mishra, Gaurav; Ghosh, Karabi; Ray, Aditi; Gupta, N. K.

2018-06-01

Radiation hydrodynamic (RHD) simulations for four different potential high-Z hohlraum materials, namely Tungsten (W), Gold (Au), Lead (Pb), and Uranium (U) are performed in order to investigate their performance with respect to x-ray absorption, re-emission and ablation properties, when irradiated by constant temperature drives. A universal functional form is derived for estimating time dependent wall albedo for high-Z materials. Among the high-Z materials studied, it is observed that for a fixed simulation time the albedo is maximum for Au below 250 eV, whereas it is maximum for U above 250 eV. New scaling laws for shock speed vs drive temperature, applicable over a wide temperature range of 100 eV to 500 eV, are proposed based on the physics of x-ray driven stationary ablation. The resulting scaling relation for a reference material Aluminium (Al), shows good agreement with that of Kauffman's power law for temperatures ranging from 100 eV to 275 eV. New scaling relations are also obtained for temperature dependent mass ablation rate and ablation pressure, through RHD simulation. Finally, our study reveals that for temperatures above 250 eV, U serves as a better hohlraum material since it offers maximum re-emission for x-rays along with comparable mass ablation rate. Nevertheless, traditional choice, Au works well for temperatures below 250 eV. Besides inertial confinement fusion (ICF), the new scaling relations may find its application in view-factor codes, which generally ignore atomic physics calculations of opacities and emissivities, details of laser-plasma interaction and hydrodynamic motions.

ChiMS: Open-source instrument control software platform on LabVIEW for imaging/depth profiling mass spectrometers.

PubMed

Cui, Yang; Hanley, Luke

2015-06-01

ChiMS is an open-source data acquisition and control software program written within LabVIEW for high speed imaging and depth profiling mass spectrometers. ChiMS can also transfer large datasets from a digitizer to computer memory at high repetition rate, save data to hard disk at high throughput, and perform high speed data processing. The data acquisition mode generally simulates a digital oscilloscope, but with peripheral devices integrated for control as well as advanced data sorting and processing capabilities. Customized user-designed experiments can be easily written based on several included templates. ChiMS is additionally well suited to non-laser based mass spectrometers imaging and various other experiments in laser physics, physical chemistry, and surface science.

ChiMS: Open-source instrument control software platform on LabVIEW for imaging/depth profiling mass spectrometers

PubMed Central

Cui, Yang; Hanley, Luke

2015-01-01

ChiMS is an open-source data acquisition and control software program written within LabVIEW for high speed imaging and depth profiling mass spectrometers. ChiMS can also transfer large datasets from a digitizer to computer memory at high repetition rate, save data to hard disk at high throughput, and perform high speed data processing. The data acquisition mode generally simulates a digital oscilloscope, but with peripheral devices integrated for control as well as advanced data sorting and processing capabilities. Customized user-designed experiments can be easily written based on several included templates. ChiMS is additionally well suited to non-laser based mass spectrometers imaging and various other experiments in laser physics, physical chemistry, and surface science. PMID:26133872

ChiMS: Open-source instrument control software platform on LabVIEW for imaging/depth profiling mass spectrometers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cui, Yang; Hanley, Luke

2015-06-01

ChiMS is an open-source data acquisition and control software program written within LabVIEW for high speed imaging and depth profiling mass spectrometers. ChiMS can also transfer large datasets from a digitizer to computer memory at high repetition rate, save data to hard disk at high throughput, and perform high speed data processing. The data acquisition mode generally simulates a digital oscilloscope, but with peripheral devices integrated for control as well as advanced data sorting and processing capabilities. Customized user-designed experiments can be easily written based on several included templates. ChiMS is additionally well suited to non-laser based mass spectrometers imaging and various other experiments in laser physics, physical chemistry, and surface science.

Improved detection limits for electrospray ionization on a magnetic sector mass spectrometer by using an array detector.

PubMed

Cody, R B; Tamura, J; Finch, J W; Musselman, B D

1994-03-01

Array detection was compared with point detection for solutions of hen egg-white lysozyme, equine myoglobin, and ubiquitin analyzed by electrospray ionization with a magnetic sector mass spectrometer. The detection limits for samples analyzed by using the array detector system were at least 10 times lower than could be achieved by using a point detector on the same mass spectrometer. The minimum detectable quantity of protein corresponded to a signal-to-background ratio of approximately 2∶1 for a 500 amol/μL solution of hen egg-white lysozyme. However, the ultimate practical sample concentrations appeared to be in the 10-100 fmol/μL range for the analysis of dilute solutions of relatively pure proteins or simple mixtures.

Wall ablation of heated compound-materials into non-equilibrium discharge plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Weizong; Kong, Linghan; Geng, Jinyue; Wei, Fuzhi; Xia, Guangqing

2017-02-01

The discharge properties of the plasma bulk flow near the surface of heated compound-materials strongly affects the kinetic layer parameters modeled and manifested in the Knudsen layer. This paper extends the widely used two-layer kinetic ablation model to the ablation controlled non-equilibrium discharge due to the fact that the local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE) approximation is often violated as a result of the interaction between the plasma and solid walls. Modifications to the governing set of equations, to account for this effect, are derived and presented by assuming that the temperature of the electrons deviates from that of the heavy particles. The ablation characteristics of one typical material, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) are calculated with this improved model. The internal degrees of freedom as well as the average particle mass and specific heat ratio of the polyatomic vapor, which strongly depends on the temperature, pressure and plasma non-equilibrium degree and plays a crucial role in the accurate determination of the ablation behavior by this model, are also taken into account. Our assessment showed the significance of including such modifications related to the non-equilibrium effect in the study of vaporization of heated compound materials in ablation controlled arcs. Additionally, a two-temperature magneto-hydrodynamic (MHD) model accounting for the thermal non-equilibrium occurring near the wall surface is developed and applied into an ablation-dominated discharge for an electro-thermal chemical launch device. Special attention is paid to the interaction between the non-equilibrium plasma and the solid propellant surface. Both the mass exchange process caused by the wall ablation and plasma species deposition as well as the associated momentum and energy exchange processes are taken into account. A detailed comparison of the results of the non-equilibrium model with those of an equilibrium model is presented. The non-equilibrium results show a non-equilibrium region near the plasma-wall interaction region and this indicates the need for the consideration of the influence of the possible departure from LTE in the plasma bulk on the determination of ablation rate.

Thermal Testing of Ablators in the NASA Johnson Space Center Radiant Heat Test Facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Del Papa, Steven; Milhoan, Jim; Remark, Brian; Suess, Leonard

2016-01-01

A spacecraft's thermal protection system (TPS) is required to survive the harsh environment experienced during reentry. Accurate thermal modeling of the TPS is required to since uncertainties in the thermal response result in higher design margins and an increase in mass. The Radiant Heat Test Facility (RHTF) located at the NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC) replicates the reentry temperatures and pressures on system level full scale TPS test models for the validation of thermal math models. Reusable TPS, i.e. tile or reinforced carbon-carbon (RCC), have been the primary materials tested in the past. However, current capsule designs for MPCV and commercial programs have required the use of an ablator TPS. The RHTF has successfully completed a pathfinder program on avcoat ablator material to demonstrate the feasibility of ablator testing. The test results and corresponding ablation analysis results are presented in this paper.

Tracing the plasma interactions for pulsed reactive crossed-beam laser ablation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Jikun; Stender, Dieter; Pichler, Markus; Döbeli, Max; Pergolesi, Daniele; Schneider, Christof W.; Wokaun, Alexander; Lippert, Thomas

2015-10-01

Pulsed reactive crossed-beam laser ablation is an effective technique to govern the chemical activity of plasma species and background molecules during pulsed laser deposition. Instead of using a constant background pressure, a gas pulse with a reactive gas, synchronized with the laser beam, is injected into vacuum or a low background pressure near the ablated area of the target. It intercepts the initially generated plasma plume, thereby enhancing the physicochemical interactions between the gaseous environment and the plasma species. For this study, kinetic energy resolved mass-spectrometry and time-resolved plasma imaging were used to study the physicochemical processes occurring during the reactive crossed beam laser ablation of a partially 18O substituted La0.6Sr0.4MnO3 target using oxygen as gas pulse. The characteristics of the ablated plasma are compared with those observed during pulsed laser deposition in different oxygen background pressures.

Planar differential mobility spectrometer as a pre-filter for atmospheric pressure ionization mass spectrometry

PubMed Central

Schneider, Bradley B.; Covey, Thomas R.; Coy, Stephen L.; Krylov, Evgeny V.

2010-01-01

Ion filters based on planar DMS can be integrated with the inlet configuration of most mass spectrometers, and are able to enhance the quality of mass analysis and quantitative accuracy by reducing chemical noise, and by pre-separating ions of similar mass. This paper is the first in a series of three papers describing the optimization of DMS / MS instrumentation. In this paper the important physical parameters of a planar DMS-MS interface including analyzer geometry, analyzer coupling to a mass spectrometer, and transport gas flow control are considered. The goal is to optimize ion transmission and transport efficiency, provide optimal and adjustable resolution, and produce stable operation under conditions of high sample contamination. We discuss the principles of DMS separations and highlight the theoretical underpinnings. The main differences between planar and cylindrical geometries are presented, including a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of RF ion focusing. In addition, we present a description of optimization of the frequency and amplitude of the DMS fields for resolution and ion transmission, and a discussion of the influence and importance of ion residence time in DMS. We have constructed a mass spectrometer interface for planar geometries that takes advantage of atmospheric pressure gas dynamic principles, rather than ion focusing, to minimize ion losses from diffusion in the analyzer and to maximize total ion transport into the mass spectrometer. A variety of experimental results has been obtained that illustrate the performance of this type of interface, including tests of resistance to high contamination levels, and the separation of stereoisomers. In a subsequent publication the control of the chemical interactions that drive the separation process of a DMS / MS system will be considered. In a third publication we describe novel electronics designed to provide the high voltages asymmetric waveform fields (SV) required for these devices as well as the effects of different waveforms. PMID:21278836

Microfluidics-to-Mass Spectrometry: A review of coupling methods and applications

PubMed Central

Wang, Xue; Yi, Lian; Mukhitov, Nikita; Schrell, Adrian M.; Dhumpa, Raghuram; Roper, Michael G.

2014-01-01

Microfluidic devices offer great advantages in integrating sample processes, minimizing sample and reagent volumes, and increasing analysis speed, while mass spectrometry detection provides high information content, is sensitive, and can be used in quantitative analyses. The coupling of microfluidic devices to mass spectrometers is becoming more common with the strengths of both systems being combined to analyze precious and complex samples. This review summarizes select achievements published between 2010 – July 2014 in novel coupling between microfluidic devices and mass spectrometers. The review is subdivided by the types of ionization sources employed, and the different microfluidic systems used. PMID:25458901