Patent ID: 7619217
Filing Date: 2009-11-17
Classification: H01J

Abstract:
1. A laser-induced acoustic desorption (LIAD) probe configured to desorb neutral molecules into a mass spectrometer, the probe comprising: a body portion having an interior region, a first end, and a second end configured to be inserted into a mass spectrometer; a window coupled to the second end of the body portion; a laser configured to generate a series laser pulses which pass into the first end of the body portion and through the window along a desorption axis; and a movable sample holder located adjacent the second end of the body portion spaced apart from the window, the movable sample holder being configured to receive a target having an analyte sample thereon and to move the target relative to the desorption axis so that different portions of the target and analyte sample thereon move into the path of the laser beam pulses during a desorption process, wherein the laser pulses supply energy to the target and an induced wave causes mechanical stress and desorption of the analyte sample from the target.