Accurate Xe isotope measurement using JPL ion trap.

We report an approach for the reproducible and accurate compositional analysis of different mixtures of Xe isotopes using miniature Jet Propulsion Laboratory Quadrupole Ion Trap (JPL-QIT). A major study objective was to validate the recent instrumental improvements to the long-term operational stability under different pressures, temperatures, and trapping conditions. We propose that the present device can be used in certification of trace amounts of isotopes in mixtures dominated by one or more isotopes. Measured isotopic compositions are verified against commercially available standards with accuracy better than 0.07%. To aid the analysis of experimental data, we developed a scalable replica fitting method and use peak areas as descriptors of relative isotopic abundances. This low-power and low-mass device is ideally suited for planetary explorations aimed to enhance quantitative analysis for major isotopes present in small amounts of atmospheric samples.