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Mass Spectrometry and Instrumentation

The current research focus of the group, led by Steve Taylor and Simon Maher, is based on a holistic systems approach to enable portable instrument solutions whereby samples can be analysed in their native environment with minimal/no sample preparation. Recent/current research projects include: information processing using odours (molecular communications), odour teleportation, advanced electrodynamics modelling, linear ion trap control electronics, ion mobility instrumentation, paper-based sensors, ambient ionisation and point-of-use diagnostics for healthcare, food security and environmental monitoring.

Performance improvement of linear quadrupoles has been achieved through extensive high accuracy computer simulations. This work has led to several patents in quadrupole mass spectrometer technology and the foundation of a spin-out company Q-Technologies Ltd with the aim to commercialise miniature quadrupole analysers. Application areas for this work are in portable mass spectrometry for online process monitoring and gas analysis, medical and veterinary diagnosis (via patient breath analysis).

More recently our research has been focused on:

  • Security
  • Environmental
  • Healthcare

For example, our portable membrane inlet mass spectrometry (MIMS) system was ruggedised then field-tested for detection of crude oil at the North Sea oil terminal in Flotta (Orkney). We have also expanded our research to include linear ion trap (LIT) technology, Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS) and are developing a number of ambient ionisation techniques.

People

Academic staff members of this group are:

Honorary members:

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