Nu Perspective - Model IRMS -Ratio Mass Spectrometer

This next generation instrument has a wealth of novel features, giving the ultimate in performance for both routine and research applications for stable isotope ratio measurements.

The combination of the analyser geometry- field proven in the Nu Instruments Noblesse noble gas mass spectrometer- and the use of the “zoom optics” (Nu patent) gives an equivalent dispersion for CO₂ of 60cm – the largest in any commercially available IRMS instrument.

The ion source sensitivity in dual inlet mode has been determined at 2 at mass 44) at 10kVz

Nu PERSPECTIVE ion source

• All ion source parameters are under computer control, with storage of the tuning parameters for each sample gas and isotope ratio to be measured.

• The ion source has integral focussing lenses (bidirectional focussing in both the vertical and horizontal planes) giving 100% transmission of ions through the analyser.

• Low (<10ppm/nA) and stable (3⁺ formation- essential for precise D/H analysis

• Integral ion source heater (temperature up to 200^oC)

Nu PERSPECTIVE magnetic sector analyser

• Variable mass dispersion of up to 60cm effective magnetic deflection radius (varies with the use of the patented zoom lens)

• Mass range 2 to 150, mass resolution (m/Δm, 10% valley) >200

• Simultaneous collection of from 2 to 6 ion beams, with 10 collectors fitted as standard to permit the simultaneous measurement of either masses 2,3; 28,29,30; 44,45,46,47,48,49; or 64,65,66,68

• High stability electromagnet supplied as standard

• High efficiency, narrow entrance, and deep Faraday collectors are used, that uniquely provide high resolution on all collectors

• The combination of the analyser geometry and electromagnet gives high spatial separation of masses 2 and 3, allowing the measurement of D/H ratios in H₂ in a helium carrier gas without the need for any additional ion optic elements

Nu PERSPECTIVE vacuum system

• True differential pumping is supplied as standard, by three BOC Edwards EXT75 70 litre/second water cooled long lifetime turbomolecular pumps, with high compression ratio for pumping of light gases (e.g. He and H₂). One BOC Edwards rotary backing pump, floor standing (inside the PERSPECTIVE cabinet)

• Penning gauge for measurement of ion source pressure, with computer monitoring of both turbomolecular pump rotation speeds and temperatures, with automatic shutdown in the case of vacuum failure

Nu PERSPECTIVE instrument control and data acquisition electronics

• Single module ion source supplies unit, fully computer controlled

• Rack mounted data acquisition and control PCBs mounted in separate and isolated module

Nu PERSPECTIVE data system and software

• Comprehensive and easy to use Windows® based control software

• Full colour display of all operating parameters, e.g. ion beams, pressure gauge

• True multitasking operation

Nu PERSPECTIVE reference gas injection and continuous-flow IRMS interfacing

• Reference gas injection system for 5 gases (CO₂ N₂,H₂, CO, and SO₂)

• Computer controlled dilutor (variable from no dilution up to 30x dilution)

• Pneumatic isolation valve to isolate the ion source

Installation Requirements

• Dimensions cm (width) x cm (depth) x cm (height)

• Single phase power supply 230V/15A required

• Compressed air @ 90psi for pneumatic valves

• Closed loop water chiller/recirculator (for turbomolecular pump cooling).