Patent ID: 9140633
Filing Date: 2015-09-22
Classification: G01N,H01J

Abstract:
1. A method for performing surface sampling of a sample containing an analyte, comprising the steps of: combining the analyte with a matrix material in a solvent for the analyte and for the matrix material to produce an analyte-matrix material solution where the matrix material is at least in a molar excess 10 times greater than the analyte; placing the analyte-matrix material solution on a support; removing the solvent to solidify the analyte and matrix material on the support, such that analyte-analyte interactions are prevented and the analyte can be re-solubilized for further analysis; and, surface sampling the solidified analyte and matrix material, comprising the step of flowing solvent onto the solidified analyte and matrix material with a surface sampling probe and removing the analyte-matrix material solution with the surface sampling probe.