Ionization Sources for Direct Real-Time Trace Vapor and Aerosol Detection in Conjunction With a Man-Portable Mass Spectrometer

BaySpec is proposing a conception, design, and developing a of two novel ionization sources,  DBDI and SESI for  trace chemical detection solution with a miniaturized, ion-trap based mass spectrometer with tandem MS (MS/MS) capabilities In this project we will increase vapor detection efficiency by constructing a novel highly sensitive soft ionization method: a Low-Pressure Dielectric Barrier Discharge Ionization (LP-DBDI) source.  We expect the advantages of an LP-DBDI source to provide high ionization efficiency, reduce the ion suppression effect, and dissociate samples effectively.  This makes LP-DBDI very interesting, it can be a valuable ionization source in term of increasing the sensitivity To further enhance the sensitivity of detection of sampled vapors for real-time mass spectrometry operation, integrating the Secondary Electrospray Ionization (SESI) could be advantageous in terms of lower detection limits, for detecting vapor and aerosol. integrated to the man-portable, field-deployable mass spectrometer.  An ambient air inlet in front of the ionization source draws raw air which contains vapor of chemicals, such as SIGMA +chemicals of interest,  such as explosives, chemical warfare agents [CWAs], toxic industrial chemicals [TICs], narcotics precursors and biological warfare agents, et al) from the detection target. Our aim is to conduct feasibility studies of different proposed approaches including modelling, simulation and calculation of and design optimization of the components and subsystems of LP-DBDI and SESI ionization sources. The final goal of this project is to achieve development and manufacturing of high-efficient ionization sources: low-pressure dielectric barrier discharge ionization (LP-DBDI) and secondary electrospray ionization (SESI).