Custom Multi-scheme Chemical Ionization Inlet for Orbitrap

Tampere University Foundation sr (Tampere University, TAU) is about to execute a direct procurement of a multisource and multischeme, controlled chemical ionization inlet for high resolution atmospheric pressure mass spectrometry. This novel inlet design enables continuous, multi-scheme ionization by rapid switching between multiple chemical ionization and secondary electrospray ionization sources, permitting to easily change the identity and even the polarity of the ionization scheme. The inlet design is based on the previously published MION concept (https://amt.copernicus.org/articles/12/6635/2019/), yet is now constructed for orbitrap instrumentation. The OMION is currently a research configuration and together with Karsa Oy and my ERC project the inlet system is further developed to allow its full potential in gas-phase chemical speciation. Most important features of the design are (i) the combined possibility for chemical ionization and secondary electrospray ionization, (ii) the potential for applying up to six ionization schemes with remote control, and (iii) the ability to rapidly reverse the polarity of the ion sources.

Justification for the choice of the negotiated procedure without prior publication of a call for competition in accordance with Directive 2014/24/EU Article 32. The works, supplies or services can be provided only by a particular economic operator for the following reason: absence of competition for technical reasons. According to the section 40 of the Act on Public Procurement and Concession Contracts 1397/2016 a contracting entity may opt for direct procurement if only a certain supplier can implement the procurement for a technical reason, or for a reason related to protecting an exclusive right; it shall be a further condition that there are no reasonable alternatives or substitute solutions, and that the absence of competition is not due to an artificial narrowing of the terms and conditions of the procurement. The OMION inlet from Karsa Oy has been chosen due to its supreme performance characteristics needed in the European Research Council (ERC) Consolidator Grant project ADAPT. This new inlet design enables continuous, multi-scheme ionization by allowing to rapidly switch between multiple chemical ionization and secondary electrospray ionization sources, permitting to easily change the identity and even the polarity of the ionization scheme. The inlet design is based on the previously published MION concept (https://amt.copernicus.org/articles/12/6635/2019/), yet is currently constructed for the orbitrap instrumentation. The MION works as a starting material and together with Karsa Oy and my ERC project we will further develop the inlet to allow its full potential. Only one supplier can meet the demands and requirements. There are no similar products available from any vendors. Most importantly, (i) the combined possibility for chemical ionization and secondary electrospray ionization, (ii) the potential for applying up to six ionization schemes with remote control, and (iii) the ability to rapidly reverse the polarity of the ion source are unprecedented within the current market.