Plasmion SICRIT® SC-30X Ionization Set - Hardware and Operations Manual

Importance of the Topic

The development of versatile, soft ionization techniques directly at atmospheric pressure is a growing need in mass spectrometry workflows. The SICRIT® SC-30X Ionization Set fulfills this role by providing a controlled dielectric barrier discharge plasma source that can be coupled to a wide range of mass spectrometers and chromatographic systems. Its ease of integration and real-time control enhances analytical flexibility and sensitivity in laboratory and R&D environments.

Objectives and Overview

This manual aims to guide users through the intended use, safe installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the SICRIT® SC-30X Ionization Set, which comprises the SICRIT® SC-30 Control Unit and the SICRIT® Ion Source. It also outlines compliance with relevant safety directives and provides detailed technical specifications.

Instrumentation

• SICRIT® SC-30 Control Unit: Central controller for high-voltage generation (0–3 000 Vpp, 10–50 kHz), module power, user interface with display and rotary encoder, Ethernet port for optional remote control.
• SICRIT® Ion Source: Compact atmospheric-pressure ionizer with dielectric plasma core, quick‐lock mounting to MS interface, Swagelok sampling inlet, operating up to 250 °C, compatible with air, N₂, CO₂, He.
• Optional Modules (e.g., GC/SPME): Powered by the SC-30 at 24 VDC, up to 100 W, with temperature control to 320 °C.

Methodology

The SICRIT® concept, Soft Ionization by Chemical Reaction In Transfer, employs a cold dielectric barrier discharge plasma to ionize analytes in the gas phase under ambient conditions. Adjustable high-voltage amplitude and frequency allow tuning of ionization energy. Coupling to gas or liquid chromatography is achieved via dedicated interface modules, facilitating direct online measurements.

Key Specifications and Discussion

The SC-30 control unit measures 270 × 200 × 80 mm, weighs 2.1 kg, and accepts 100–240 VAC input. It features dual high-voltage outputs (max. 1100 VAC each), module outputs at 24 VDC, and operates between 5–40 °C with <80 % RH. The ion source is a 45 × 20 × 20 mm stainless‐steel and PEEK assembly, carrying two HV connectors and operating up to 250 °C on the MS side. Typical carrier gas flows range from 0.5–1.5 L/min, with ignition voltages around 1000 Vpp and optimal operation between 1200–2000 Vpp.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Real-time adjustment of plasma conditions for optimized ionization of diverse analytes.
• Seamless integration with mainstream mass spectrometers via plug‐and‐play interfaces.
• Compatibility with GC, HPLC, and direct ambient sampling, expanding analytical scope.
• Compact design and intuitive user interface reduce setup time and training requirements.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Advancements may include miniaturized plasma cores, expanded module libraries for specialized separations (e.g., SPME, microreactors), automated feedback control based on ion current, and integration with ion mobility spectrometry. Further research into alternative gas chemistries and multiplexed plasma sources will broaden application space in environmental monitoring, food safety, and clinical screening.

Conclusion

The SICRIT® SC-30X Ionization Set provides a robust, flexible platform for soft ambient plasma ionization. Its modular architecture, precise HV and temperature control, and straightforward interfacing enable rapid deployment across analytical laboratories. Adherence to safety standards and comprehensive troubleshooting guidelines ensure reliable long‐term performance.

References

• Directive 2014/35/EU (Low Voltage Directive)
• Directive 2014/30/EU (EMC Directive)
• Directive 2011/65/EU (RoHS 2)
• IEC/EN 61010-1:2010 (Safety requirements for electrical equipment for laboratory use)
• IEC/EN 61326-1:2012, Class A (Electromagnetic compatibility)
• CISPR 11/EN 55011:2009 (Industrial, scientific and medical equipment emissions)