Quadrupole Ion Trap (QTrap)

Quadrupole Ion Trap (QTrap)

The Quadrupole Ion Trap (QTrap) spectrometer is a unique setup used to examine quantitative workflows as done by a triple quadrupole or qualitative workflows as done by a highly sensitive linear ion trap mass spectrometer. The QTrap utilizes helium as a buffer gas in the chamber and functions at a pressure of 10^-3 torr. The QTrap has unique capabilities for analyzing molecular structures by making fragment patterns.

In a quadrupole ion trap (QTrap) system, the ions may be created inside the setup or generated externally. The end cap electrodes are energized by AC or DC excitation, and the ring electrode by RF excitation traps charged ions in a stable oscillatory trajectory. Only ions with specific mass-to-charge ratios (m/z) at a particular DC/RF voltage ratio can pass through the quadrupole. The operator can then examine the ions outside of the trap to obtain a complete spectral data scan of the ions in the trap. 

Video 01: Quadrupole Ion Trap Mass Spectrometer

Common Uses of Quadrupole Ion Trap (QTrap)

• QTrap is utilized for qualitative identification and analysis, structural characterization, and empirical studies.

Advantages of Quadrupole Ion Trap (QTrap)

• QTrap can be utilized alone or in tandem for ion isolation.
• High sensitivity.
• Ability to conduct tandem mass spectrometry analysis.

Limitations of Quadrupole Ion Trap (QTrap)

• Not suitable for quantitative analysis due to space charge effects.

Industrial applications of Quadrupole Ion Trap (QTrap)

• Pharmaceutical industry.
• Food industry.