GD-HRMS (Glow Discharge High Res. Mass Spectrometer) using a magnetic sector
GD-MS (Glow Discharge Mass Spectrometry) using a magnetic sector is a technique used for elemental analysis, especially in the analysis of solid materials. This method is powerful for detecting trace elements and isotopic ratios in various samples.
Process:
Glow Discharge (GD):
In GD-MS, a glow discharge is used to ionize the sample. This involves applying a high voltage to create a low-pressure plasma. The sample, often in solid form, is placed in the path of this plasma.
The plasma bombards the sample, causing atoms or molecules from the surface of the sample to be excited and ionized. The ions then enter the mass spectrometer.
Magnetic Sector Mass Spectrometry:
Once ionized, the ions are directed into the mass spectrometer, where a magnetic sector is used to separate them based on their mass-to-charge (m/z) ratio.
A magnetic field is applied, causing ions to follow curved trajectories, with lighter ions bending more sharply than heavier ions.
By measuring the radius of curvature of these ions, the spectrometer can determine their m/z ratio.
Detection:
After separation by the magnetic sector, the ions are detected, and their abundances are measured.
This allows for the identification and quantification of elements and isotopes present in the sample, with high sensitivity and precision.
Advantages of GD-MS with Magnetic Sector:
High Sensitivity: This technique is highly sensitive, allowing for the detection of trace elements.
Isotopic Analysis: It can also be used for isotopic analysis, making it useful for studying elemental ratios.
Minimal Sample Preparation: Since it’s a direct solid analysis technique, sample preparation is minimal, unlike some other methods that require dissolution or complex preparation steps.
Elemental Depth Profiling: GD-MS can be used for depth profiling, which is useful for analyzing layered materials, coatings, or other thin films.
How GDMS Works
In the GDMS process, atoms within the sample undergo atomization and ionization in the plasma. Once ionized, these ions (M+) move beyond the cell and accelerate down a flight path. They pass through both an electrostatic analyzer (ESA) and a magnetic analyzer, which enhance the separation of ions before they reach the detector. Depending on signal strength, detection occurs via either an electron multiplier or a Faraday cup, offering highly accurate measurements.
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