Journal of Undergraduate Research
Keywords
single ion detection, mass spectrometry, low capacitance, MOSFET
College
Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering and Technology
Department
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Abstract
Mass spectrometry is an important tool for analytical chemistry that allows the chemical composition of a compound to be determined. In order to do so, it separates the compound into ions, and then detects the number of ions of different masses.
The charge on a single ion is very small, making it difficult to measure. In order to overcome this, current mass spectrometers must use methods such as electron multipliers to create a cascading effect of electrons until a measurable charge is reached or cryodetectors that measure the thermal change of an ion hit at low temperatures.1 Using methods such as these require the use of expensive, bulky machinery that can provide either vacuum conditions or extreme low temperature conditions, meaning that samples must be brought back to a lab for analysis.
Recommended Citation
Hamblin, Matthew and Hawkins, Aaron
(2016)
"Single Ion Detection for Mass Spectrometry using Low Capacitance MOSFETs,"
Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2016:
Iss.
1, Article 14.
Available at:
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2016/iss1/14