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U.S. Department of Energy
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Sample introducing apparatus and sample modules for mass spectrometer

Patent ·
OSTI ID:5437310

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.

DOE Contract Number:
AC05-84OR21400
Assignee:
Martin Marietta Energy Systems, Inc., Oak Ridge, TN (United States)
Patent Number(s):
A; US 5272337
OSTI ID:
5437310
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English