Abstract: Aspects of the invention include sample ionizing devices and methods of use thereof. Embodiments of the sample ionizing devices include a microplasma generation source with a plasma generation region, a sample input port for delivering a sample to the plasma generation region, and a gas flow element configured to flow gas through the microplasma generation source independently of the sample input port. The devices and methods of the invention find use in a variety of different applications, including analyte detection applications.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention include plasma generating devices and systems thereof, as well as methods of using the same in plasma generation. Embodiments of the plasma generating devices include a resonator having a discharge gap and a ground plane disposed on opposing sides of a substrate; and a gas flow element configured to flow gas through the discharge gap. In using the plasma generating devices, a gas is flowed through the discharge gap and sufficient power is applied to the resonator to produce a plasma, e.g., in the form of a plasma jet, at the discharge gap. The subject devices and methods find use in a variety of different applications.