VeriSpray PaperSpray Ion Source User Guide

Importance of PaperSpray Ion Source in Analytical Practice

PaperSpray technology integrated with Thermo Scientific TSQ Series II mass spectrometers enables rapid, high-throughput analysis directly from paper substrates. Its direct ionization approach eliminates time-consuming chromatographic steps and reduces solvent consumption and waste.

Objectives and Overview

The main goal of the VeriSpray PaperSpray Ion Source is to automate deposition and ionization of analytes on paper strips for mass spectrometric detection. This user guide documents installation, operation, maintenance, and calibration procedures for the VeriSpray Ion Source and optional automated plate handling systems, ensuring reliable performance in research and QA/QC laboratories.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Key components of the system include:

• Solvent Module: Two 100 mL bottles with integrated tubing for rewetting and spray solvents, dual syringe pumps, and a spring-loaded high-voltage probe.
• Plate Transport Module: Motor-driven rail, optical sensor, and alignment mechanism to position 24-strip sample plates in front of the MS inlet.
• Sample Handling: Manual Plate Loader for single-plate operation and Automated Plate Loader with a 10-plate carousel (magazine), barcode scanner, and LED status indicators.
• Software Control: Thermo Fisher Scientific Tune application and Xcalibur for data acquisition and sequence management.

Calibration and Installation Summary

Installation involves mounting on existing API interface rails, aligning the z-axis (optimal paper tip to inlet distance of 2–6 mm, default 4 mm), and connecting 24 Vdc power and Ethernet. Automated calibration routines in the Tune software adjust pump, rail positioning, and plate loader parameters. Regular calibration ensures reproducible operation.

Key Results and Discussion

Validated workflows demonstrate:

• Consistent sample volumes (5–12 µL) applied to paper strips.
• Automated solvent delivery: rewet volumes up to 30 µL in 10 µL increments, spray volumes up to 200 µL in 10 µL increments, with programmable dispense delays.
• Programmable spray voltage up to 6000 V (positive mode) or 5500 V (negative mode) with time-dependent profiles.
• Barcode-driven sample identification and sequence control for up to 240 analyses per batch.

Benefits and Applications

PaperSpray with VeriSpray offers:

• High sample throughput without conventional chromatography.
• Minimal manual handling and reduced cross-contamination.
• Compatibility with a wide range of solvents and matrices (blood, urine, food extracts).
• Automated sample tracking through integrated barcode scanning.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Emerging developments include:

• Expanded solvent chemistries and functionalized paper substrates for enhanced selectivity.
• Integration with online data processing and AI-driven spectral interpretation.
• Miniaturized, field-deployable units for point-of-care testing and on-site analysis.

Conclusion

The Thermo Scientific VeriSpray PaperSpray Ion Source streamlines mass spectrometric workflows by automating sample deposition, ionization, and data acquisition. Its modular design and integrated software control enhance laboratory efficiency, while ongoing innovations promise broader analytical capabilities.

Instrumentation

• VeriSpray PaperSpray Ion Source (P/N VSIS1-10000)
• Automated Plate Loader with Magazine (P/N VSPM1-10000)
• 24-strip Sample Plates (P/N VSSP1-10000)
• 1/4-turn and threaded ion transfer tube removal tools (P/N 98200-20154, 98200-20165)
• Software: TSQ Series II Control Software (Tune 3.2+) and Xcalibur

Reference

Thermo Fisher Scientific, VeriSpray PaperSpray Ion Source User Guide (98200-98015, Rev A, April 2019).