Numerical analysis of ion-funnel transmission efficiency in an API-MS system with a continuum/microscopic approach

A multi-step numerical approach is used to analyze the efficiency of an ion-funnel to transport ions over a wide range of m/z. A continuum approach based on the solution of the Navier-Stokes equations is applied to model the gas flow through a capillary connecting the atmospheric and subatmospheric sections of a mass spectrometer. A microscopic, fully kinetic approach based on the solution of the Boltzmann equation is used to examine the ion and gas transport through an ion-funnel kept at a 0.1-3 Torr pressure to the quadrupole section kept at a 0.01 Torr pressure. In addition to aerodynamic drag, the developed approach takes into account the combined effect of the DC field driving the ions downstream toward the funnel exit, the rf field confining the ions in radial direction, and the space charge causing ion repulsion. The sensitivity of the ion transmission to the gas pressure in the ion-funnel, the rf, and the total ion current injected to the funnel from capillary nozzle is shown. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.