Technology · Ion Mobility Spectrometry
Ultra-sensitive gas detection technology for trace-level chemical analysis—delivering unparalleled sensitivity and selectivity for real-time monitoring applications.
Revolutionary analytical technique that separates and identifies chemical compounds based on their mobility in an electric field under atmospheric pressure.
Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS) is an analytical technique that separates and identifies chemical compounds based on their mobility in an electric field under atmospheric pressure. This powerful technology provides unparalleled sensitivity and selectivity for trace gas detection.
The IMS process begins with sample ionization using a radioactive source (typically Ni-63 or tritium). Ionized molecules are then separated in a drift tube under the influence of an electric field, with different compounds exhibiting characteristic drift times.
Gas sample enters ionization chamber
β-radiation creates ion-molecule reactions
Ions drift through electric field
Faraday plate measures ion current
Critical parameters that define IMS performance and analytical capabilities.
| Parameter | Typical Values | Impact on Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Electric Field Strength | 200-400 V/cm | Controls ion velocity and resolution |
| Drift Gas Flow Rate | 50-200 mL/min | Affects separation efficiency |
| Operating Temperature | 120-200°C | Prevents water clustering |
| Drift Tube Length | 5-20 cm | Determines resolution and sensitivity |
| Gate Pulse Width | 100-300 μs | Controls ion packet size |
| Resolving Power (t/Δt) | 20-100 | Ability to separate compounds |
Comprehensive performance comparison across critical analytical parameters.
| Technology | Sensitivity | Selectivity | Response Time | Power | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IMS | ppb-ppt | High | 30s | Low | Medium |
| PID | ppb-ppm | Moderate | < 3s | Low | Low |
| FID | ppm-ppb | Low | < 5s | High | Medium |
| GC-MS | ppb-ppt | Very High | Minutes | High | High |
| Electrochemical | ppm-ppb | Moderate | < 30s | Very Low | Low |
Advanced operational modes optimized for different compound classes and analytical requirements.
Most common operating mode for organic compounds detection.
Specialized mode for electron-capturing compounds.
Advanced mode switching between polarities for comprehensive analysis.
Comprehensive detection solutions across diverse industries requiring ultra-sensitive chemical analysis.
Leading-edge innovations in hardware, software, and application support delivering unmatched analytical performance.
Discover how IUT's advanced Ion Mobility Spectrometry technology can enhance your analytical capabilities and detection performance.
ppb-ppt sensitivity · Sub-10 second response · Chemical selectivity · Atmospheric operation