Integrated sample preparation, separation and introduction microdevice for inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

摘要

The present invention relates to microdevices for introducing a small volume of a fluid sample into an ionization chamber. The microdevices are constructed from a substrate having a first and second opposing surfaces, the substrate having a microchannel formed in the first surface, and 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 is provided in fluid communication with the microchannel, 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 into the ionization chamber. Optionally, the fluid sample undergoes a chemical or biochemical reaction within an integrated portion of the microdevice before reaching the ionization chamber. A nebulizing means nebulizes the fluid sample in a nebulizing region adjacent to the sample outlet port. The invention also relates to a method for introducing a fluid sample using the microdevice.