Patent ID: 6610978
Filing Date: 2003-08-26
Classification: H01J

Abstract:
A microdevice for introducing a fluid sample into an ionization chamber, the microdevice comprising:a substrate having a first and second opposing surfaces, the substrate having a microchannel formed in the first surface; a cover plate arranged over the first surface, the cover plate in combination with the microchannel defining a conduit for conveying the sample; a sample inlet port in fluid communication with the conduit, wherein the sample inlet port allows the fluid sample from an external source to be conveyed in a defined sample flow path that travels, in order, through the sample inlet port, the conduit and a sample outlet port and in to the ionization chamber; and a nebulizing means for nebulizing the fluid sample in a nebulizing region adjacent to the sample outlet port, wherein the substrate, the cover plate, and nebulizing means are each comprised of a polymeric material that is chemically inert and physically stable to the fluid sample, and the nebulizing means represents an integrated portion of the microdevice.