Tandem Mass-Selective Cryogenic Digital Ion Traps for Enhanced Cluster Formation

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Physical Chemistry
• Spectroscopy

Background:

• Cryogenic ion traps are crucial for precise ion manipulation.
• Existing methods for ion processing have limitations in range and compatibility with cryogenic conditions.
• Tandem mass spectrometry often requires pre-processing of ions for enhanced analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement tandem mass-selective cryogenic ion traps.
• To combine ion clustering and mass filtering in a single cryogenic trap.
• To expand the scope of ionic species and clusters accessible for spectroscopic interrogation.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing cryogenic linear quadrupole ion traps driven by radiofrequency (RF) square waves.
• Manipulating RF frequency and duty cycle for mass filtering and isolation.
• Adjusting stability boundaries for preferential formation of specific ion cluster sizes.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated combined ion cluster formation and mass filtering in a single cryogenic trap.
• Achieved mass filtering and isolation without high-amplitude RF voltages, compatible with cryogenic conditions.
• Showcased preferential formation of specific cluster sizes and transfer to a second trap for further processing.

Conclusions:

• The developed instrumentation offers a modular design for enhanced ion processing.
• This approach expands the range of ionic species and clusters that can be analyzed.
• The tandem mass-selective cryogenic ion traps provide a versatile platform for advanced spectroscopic studies.