Apparatus and methods for the analysis of trace constituents in gases
AssigneeMicromass UK Limited
InventorsRobert Steven Timothy Linforth, Andrew John Taylor
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Abstract
The invention comprises a novel sample introduction system which incorporates a venturi pump to convey a sample gas to an analytical instrument at atmospheric pressure. An APCI, ICP or MIP mass spectrometer is preferred as the analytical instrument. Using such an inlet with an APCI mass spectrometer, the real-time analysis of trace materials present in breath is facilitated, enabling, for example, the release of compounds responsible for aroma and taste to be analysed during eating and drinking. The invention can also be used for headspace analysis and for monitoring the release of fragrances from skin or clothing.
Claims29
In apparatus for analyzing trace constituents in a sample of gas, said apparatus comprising:
- an analytical instrument for analyzing at least some of said trace constituents and having an entrance port;
- gas sampling probe means through which at least some of said gas may flow and having a proximal end disposed for communication with a gas to be analyzed and a distal end disposed in communication with said entrance port;
- and
- means for reducing the pressure in the vicinity of said distal end relative to that at said proximal end so that at least some of the gas to be analyzed flows to said entrance port;
- the improvement comprising said means for reducing the pressure comprising venturi means disposed adjacent to said distal end, and means for causing a flow of a transport gas to said venturi means.
A method of analyzing trace constituents comprised in a sample of gas, said method comprising the steps of:
- providing an analytical instrument for analyzing at least some of said trace constituents, said analytical instrument having an entrance port;
- providing a gas sampling probe means through which at least some of said gas may flow and having a proximal end and a distal end;
- disposing said proximal end of said gas sampling probe means in communication with the gas to be analyzed;
- disposing said distal end of said gas sampling probe means in communication with said entrance port;
- reducing the pressure in the vicinity of said distal end relative to that at said proximal end so that at least some of the gas to be analyzed flows to said entrance port;
- and
- analyzing with said analytical instrument at least some of the trace constituents in said flow of gas;
- the improvement comprising of reducing the pressure at said distal end of the gas sampling probe means by using a venturi effect caused by a flow of a transport gas supplied to said distal end.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.