MEMS based Mass Spectrometry

The objective is to design, build and characterize a MEMS based mass analyser for planetary exploration.

Currently under GSTP, a Gaz Chromatograph (GC) system is under development making extensive use of MEMS technology ( preconcentrator, detector, columns). What is still missing is an adequalte MEMS based Mass Spectrometer. Recently, first MEMS based MS systems have reached the market, for terrestrial applications, after more than ten years of extensive research. A coupling of a MEMS based MS system with the MEMS based GC would facilitate smaller instruments for exploration missions, at the same time provide a smaller envelope gas monitoring systems for manned spaceflight using GC MS technology. The objective of this activity is to design, build and characterize a MEMS based MS in a relevant environment for exploration missions. Benchmark tests with lab standard instruments are foreseen as well to investigate the performance parameters.