Optimized DLP linear ion trap for a portable non-scanning mass spectrometer

• Optimization of a linear ion trap fabricated using digital light processing (DLP LIT).
• Usage of novel polymer material and electroplating process for manufacturing DLP LIT.
• New DLP LIT offers low outgassing, long electrode lifetime and high voltage stability.
• Key mass fragments of illicit substances are detected with a non-scanning DLP LIT.

This work reports implementation of an optimized linear ion trap (LIT) mass analyzer manufactured using digital light processing (DLP), a low cost rapid prototyping technique. To satisfy requirements for a portable commercial instrument, our previous DLP LIT has been improved by using polymer material for electrodes and housing with higher heat deflection temperature and much improved metal coating of the electrodes. In this way, a polymer-based LIT can operate at higher pressures with more stable voltages, low outgassing and with much longer electrode lifetime. This paper demonstrates non-scanning operation of a DLP LIT based on ceramic resin with specially electroplated electrodes. Non-scanning mode is suitable for applications in which only specific mass fragments are targeted such as security and forensics. Experimental results from a DLP LIT are therefore shown for simulants of cocaine, TNT and sarin.

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