Abstract: A processing machine (10) for building an object (11) from powder (12) includes a build platform (26A); a powder supply assembly (18) that deposits the powder (12) onto the build platform (26A) to form a powder layer (13); and an energy system (22) that directs an energy beam (22D) at a portion of the powder (12) on the build platform (26A) to form a portion of the object (11). The powder supply assembly (18) can include (i) a powder container (640A) that retains the powder (12); (ii) a supply outlet (639) positioned over the build platform (26A); and (ii) a flow control assembly (642) that selectively controls the flow of the powder (12) from the supply outlet (639).

Abstract: A mass spectrometry method comprises: generating ions; directing the ions through an ion optical component within a first chamber having a first vacuum pressure, the ion optical component maintained at a first electrical potential; transferring the ions through an ion guide within a second chamber having a second vacuum pressure less than the first vacuum pressure, the ion guide maintained at a second electrical potential, wherein a difference between the first and second potentials imparts kinetic energy that causes collision-induced ion fragmentation within the second chamber that removes adduct species; and transferring the ions into another ion guide within a third chamber having a third vacuum pressure less than the second vacuum pressure, the other ion guide maintained at a third electrical potential, wherein a difference between the third and second potentials reduces a portion of the imparted kinetic energy of the ions passing into the third chamber.

Abstract: The invention provides methods and apparatuses that utilize mass spectrometry for preparation of a surface to have catalytic activity through molecular soft-landing of mass selected ions. Mass spectrometry is used to generate combinations of atoms in a particular geometrical arrangement, and ion soft-landing selects this molecular entity or combination of entities and gently deposits the entity or combination intact onto a surface.

Abstract: The invention provides methods and apparatuses that utilize mass spectrometry for preparation of a surface to have catalytic activity through molecular soft-landing of mass selected ions. Mass spectrometry is used to generate combinations of atoms in a particular geometrical arrangement, and ion soft-landing selects this molecular entity or combination of entities and gently deposits the entity or combination intact onto a surface.