Compact mass spectrometer for plasma discharge ion analysis

Patent · Wed Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 1997

OSTI ID:871061

Tuszewski, Michel G ^[1]

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1. Los Alamos, NM

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.

• Research Organization: Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), Los Alamos, NM (United States)
• DOE Contract Number: W-7405-ENG-36
• Assignee: Regents of University of California (Los Alamos, NM)
• Patent Number(s): US 5650618
• OSTI ID: 871061
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

compact
mass
spectrometer
plasma
discharge
analysis
methods
spectrometry
useful
characterizing
determining
type
quantity
simple
inexpensive
accomplishes
single
step
two-step
process
comprised
extraction
followed
filtering
captured
measuring
element
placed
accelerated
applied
voltage
bent
near-circular
orbits
magnetic
field
strike
collector
producing
electric
current
vary
proton
ratio
species
identified
flow
provides
indication
striking
mass filter
single step
plasma discharge
electric current
mass spectrometer
magnetic field
current flow
mass spectrometry
applied voltage
two-step process
step process
flow provides
mass analysis
element placed
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