Abstract: Sample inlet components are provided that can include a skimmer associated with a conduit, with the skimmer defining an opening configured to receive at least some sample exiting the conduit. The conduit can have a first end extending to a second end, with the first end configured as an entrance for the sample and the second end configured as an exit for the sample. The second end of the conduit can include at least two portions, a first portion of the two portions being located physically closer to the skimmer than a second portion of the two portions. Sample introduction methods are provided that can include propelling sample from a conduit aligned with an opening of a skimmer. The majority of the sample can exit the conduit in a direction other than toward the opening of the skimmer.

Abstract: An electrospray ionization device is provided that includes one or more electrospray needles and an ion sampling device. Each needle has a distal end for receiving a sample, a tip for spraying the sample in fluid communication with the distal end, and an electrical contact for contacting at least some portion of sample therein. The ion sampling device has an entrance, an exit, and an interior in fluid communication with the entrance and the exit, and is located in proximity to the tip or tips of the one or more electrospray needles. The entrance defines an opening that has a larger area than an opening defined by the exit. The ion sampling device also has a counter-electrical contact. The electrospray ionization device further comprises means for generating an electrical potential difference between the counter-electrical contact and the electrical contact(s) of the one or more electrospray needles.

Abstract: An electrospray ionization device is provided that includes one or more electrospray needles and an ion sampling device. Each needle has a distal end for receiving a sample, a tip for spraying the sample in fluid communication with the distal end, and an electrical contact for contacting at least some portion of sample therein. The ion sampling device has an entrance, an exit, and an interior in fluid communication with the entrance and the exit, and is located in proximity to the tip or tips of the one or more electrospray needles. The entrance defines an opening that has a larger area than an opening defined by the exit. The ion sampling device also has a counter-electrical contact. The electrospray ionization device further comprises means for generating an electrical potential difference between the counter-electrical contact and the electrical contact(s) of the one or more electrospray needles.