Time-Resolved Spark-Source Mass Spectrometry; The Effect Of Spark Duration On Ion Intensity And Precision Of Analysis

Abstract

A radio-frequency probe and a synchronized electronic ion-beam chapper have been used to determine ion-intensity variation with spark duration. Large peaks in multiply charged ion intensities are detected in the early stages of the radio-frequency spark, while later in the spark period the singly charged species predominate. The effects of these variations on the precision of analysis have been determined. A gate was selected in the spark pulse, and a factor of two increase in precision was obtained.

Key Words:

• mass spectrometry
• spark source
• analysis
• time resolved
• ion intensity
• precision