No abstract

A specialized isotope mass spectrometer for noninvasive diagnostics of Helicobacter pylori infec tion in human beings based on the carbon 13 isotope breath test has been designed and constructed. Impor tant stages of the work included (i) calculating a low aberration mass analyzer, (ii) manufacturing and testing special gas inlet system, and (iii) creating a small size collector of ions. The proposed instrument ensures 13 C/ 12 C isotopic ratio measurement to within 1.7‰ (pro mille) accuracy, which corresponds to requirements for a diagnostic tool. Preliminary medical testing showed that the mass spectrometer is applicable to practical diagnostics. The instrument is also capable of measuring isotopic ratios of other light elements, including N, O, B (for BF 2 + ions), Ar, Cl, and S.

No abstract