IONIZATION APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MASS SPECTROMETER SYSTEM

摘要

An ionization apparatus (10) for connection to a mass analyzer (103) is provided. The ionization apparatus (10) comprises a sample slide (101) having at least two sample spots (100) containing analytes to be analyzed by a mass analyzer (103), means for delivering energy (104) to one of the sample spots to release and ionize the analytes to form ions, and an interface (15) connecting the one of the sample spots (100) to the analyzer. The interface (15) comprises a chamber (118) having an orifice (102) in close proximity to the one of the sample spots (100) and defining a first region encompassing the one of the sample spots, and an ion guide (106) disposed in the chamber (118) and leading to the mass analyzer (103) in a second region. Means for sustaining a pressure substantially lower than atmospheric within the first region is provided for capturing the ions while other sample spots (100) are maintained at atmospheric pressure. Means for sustaining a pressure within the second region substantially lower than the pressure within the first region is provided.