A backpack-portable mass spectrometer for measurement of volatile compounds in the environment

Environmental measurements of volatile pollutants and metabolic gases are preferably made in situ. In situ measurement provides immediate information to the investigator while minimizing disturbance and eliminating the need for sample collection, preservation, and transport. A self-contained mass spectrometer, capable of being carried by one person, has been designed and built for this purpose. The instrument is based on a compact crossed-field analyzer using a high-energy-product magnet and control circuitry optimized for low power consumption using a 12-V dc primary power source. An internal, rechargeable battery can provide up to several hours of operation in the field. Provision is made to facilitate the addition of an interface, via RS-232, to a compact battery-operated laptop microcomputer. A variety of inlet configurations is possible, the simplest being a probe, containing a small silicone-rubber membrane, which may be inserted into a gas- or water-containing environment of interest.

© 1991 American Institute of Physics