A Silicon Microneedle Array Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Ionization Source for Real-Time Trace Gas Chemical Analysis

Abstract

Researchers at the University of California, Davis have developed an atmospheric pressure ionization source that employs an ordered array of micro-needles designed to ionize sample components.

Full Description

This technology provides an ionization device operating at atmospheric pressure that utilizes an ordered array of micro-needles to flow and ionize samples. The needles act both as microfluidic conduits and ionization points where electrical discharge occurs to generate atmospheric plasma across a sub-millimeter gap between the needle array and a cathode. The device can be integrated with mass spectrometry or other detection systems and can be constructed with selectable needle array configurations, coatings, and electronic control to optimize performance and durability.

Applications

• Mass spectrometry sample ionization for chemical, environmental, and pharmaceutical analysis. 
• Portable analytical devices for field testing and diagnostics. 
• Microfluidic lab-on-a-chip systems requiring integrated ionization. 
• Plasma-based ionization technologies for rapid chemical sensing. 
• Research tools in atmospheric pressure plasma chemistry and analytical instrumentation.

Features/Benefits

• Operates at atmospheric pressure. 
• Reduces voltage and power requirements through a sub-millimeter ionization gap. 
• Enables portable, compact design for field and laboratory use. 
• Minimizes component wear with selectively activated needle arrays for consistent ionization. 
• Integrates dual-function micro-needles as both fluid conduits and ionization sites. 
• Customizes chemical environments with tailored needle coatings. 
• Enhances fluid flow and robustness with improved aerodynamic needle structures. 
• Maintains compatibility with standard detection methods, such as mass spectrometry. 
• Lowers power consumption and voltage needs for ionization sources. 
• Extends component lifespan by minimizing wear through selective needle activation. 
• Streamlines efficient ionization of samples in portable, compact formats. 
• Adapts ionization parameters flexibly with customizable needle arrays and coatings. 
• Enables precise ionization in microfluidic environments without sample dilution.

Patent Status

Patent Pending