Direct pin sample analysis using a Grimm-type glow discharge source and time-of-flight mass spectrometer

A sample holder has been developed that allows pin sample analysis on a Grimm-type glow discharge source. The sample holder mounts to the Grimm source directly, allowing rapid pin and flat sample analyses without additional sample preparation steps. Intrinsic advantages of the Grimm-type source, such as easy sample interchange and good precision, are maintained with this sample holder. The source is operated in a microsecond-pulsed mode and coupled to a time-of-flight mass spectrometer. Analytical characteristics, such as detection limits and isotopic precision, are comparable to mass spectral analysis with Grimm and diode glow discharge sources. The microsecond pulsed mode of operation afforded temporal discrimination of interfering background species with proper selection of sampling time. Depth profiling, traditionally restricted to flat samples with a Grimm configuration, is shown for pin samples using the developed sample holder.