Device and system for selective ionization and analyte detection and method of using the same
AssigneeBattelle Memorial Institute
InventorsRobert Ewing, Blandina Valenzuela, Eric Freeburg
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
Disclosed herein are embodiments of a system for selectively ionizing samples that may comprise a plurality of different analytes that are not normally detectable using the same ionization technique. The disclosed system comprises a unique split flow tube that can be coupled with a plurality of ionization sources to facilitate using different ionization techniques for the same sample. Also disclosed herein are embodiments of a method for determining the presence of analytes in a sample, wherein the number and type of detectable analytes that can be identified is increased and sensitivity and selectivity are not sacrificed.
Claims23
A split flow tube, comprising:
- a distal end configured to be coupled to a detection apparatus;
- a proximal end;
- a barrier positioned within the split flow tube so as to separate an internal volume of the split flow tube into two or more reaction regions and extending along a length of the split flow tube;
- a first opening in the split flow tube that is configured to accept a first ionization source;
- a second opening in the split flow tube that is configured to accept a sample introduction inlet;
- and
- an exit opening formed at the distal end of the split flow tube.
A system, comprising:
- a first ionization source;
- a second ionization source;
- a split flow tube comprising
- a distal end configured to be coupled to a detection apparatus;
- a proximal end;
- a barrier positioned within the split flow tube so as to separate an internal volume of the split flow tube into two or more reaction regions and extending along a length of the split flow tube;
- a first opening in the split flow tube that is physically coupled to the first ionization source;
- a second opening in the split flow tube that is configured to accept a sample introduction inlet;
- a third opening in the split flow tube that is physically coupled to the second ionization source;
- and
- an exit opening formed at the distal end of the split flow tube;
- a sample introduction region coupled to the sample introduction inlet of the split flow tube;
- and
- a detection apparatus coupled to the distal end of the split flow tube.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.