About

Pioneer of Advanced Corona Discharge Ion Mobility Spectrometry

Detect Ion team with over three decades of experience in developing analytical instruments especially research-grade ion mobility (IMS) and time-of-flight mass spectrometers, for specific trace analysis, has been the world research leader in non-radioactive corona discharge ionization source for over 25 years. The traditional radioactive source in IMS was successfully replaced by a novel corona discharge ion source with an order of magnitude higher ion current and excellent stability, lasting for several years without any corrosion.

Company Profile

Detect Ion Tech is an innovative technology-oriented startup based in Canada. As a university spin-off company, we specialize in commercializing the groundbreaking Corona Discharge Ion Mobility Spectrometry (CD-IMS) technology, which was invented in 2000 [1]. Over the past two decades, we have continuously enhanced this cutting-edge technology, resulting in the development of various ionization sources and different versions of ion mobility instruments, covering a wide range of applications such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), toxins, sulfur-containing chemicals, illicit drugs and alkaloids, explosives, pesticides, and insecticides, all detectable at parts per billion (ppb) level concentrations. Additionally, we have expanded our offerings to include time-of-flight mass spectrometers for scientific research and chemical analysis.

Our primary product, the research-grade IMS, was the world’s first commercial instrument that utilized a non-radioactive corona discharge ionization source. Today, we are a leading producer of IMS-based laboratory analyzers, catering to the detection and measurement needs of targeted chemicals in industries such as air quality, water quality, breath analysis, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, gas, and petrochemicals, as well as academic and research institutions.

Our latest unique offering is the Multi Ion Source – Ion Mobility Spectrometer (MIS-IMS), a versatile product that allows for quick and easy changeable ionization options, enabling selective ionization and specific analysis tailored to different applications. It incorporates the novel inverse-IMS technique, which significantly enhances resolution.

Throughout our journey, we have served customers across a wide range of industries and applications. We have supported research institutes, universities, and master’s and Ph.D. projects in the fields of chemistry and environmental research. Our expertise extends to industries such as water and gas, where we facilitate trace analysis, including the detection of elemental mercury in natural gas and chlorine in oil, monitoring emissions of NOx and SOx, residual pesticides in drinking water, and monitoring formalin in car indoor spaces. We have also developed specialized knowledge in the field of food science, conducting analyses of coffee, wine, saffron, and other products. Additionally, we have made advancements in medical and biotechnological applications, specifically in real-time monitoring of HCN and Ammonia emissions from bacteria, as well as breath analysis for disease biomarkers.

Design and optimization of a corona discharge ionization source for ion mobility spectrometry, Review of scientific instruments 71 (6), 2321-2328, 2000.

Founder

The founder of Detect Ion has been actively involved in ion mobility technology for over 35 years, with an additional decade of experience in time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Throughout his career, he has been engaged in all aspects of technology, including initial instrument design, product development, exploring new applications, and business development. Prior to establishing Detect Ion, he held the position of University Professor, where he formed a research group specializing in physical and analytical chemistry, specifically focusing on the development and utilization of scientific instruments such as IMS and MS. He holds a Ph.D. degree in Chemistry from Southampton University.

In recognition of his expertise and contributions, he has authored about 100 peer-reviewed papers and has been granted a number of patents in the field of ion mobility spectrometry, mass spectrometry, and detection techniques. His extensive knowledge and dedication have significantly advanced the understanding and utilization of IMS technology.

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