Gerald W Coutts

Title: Gerald W Coutts: Innovator in Mass Spectrometry

Introduction

Gerald W Coutts is a notable inventor based in Livermore, California. He has made significant contributions to the field of mass spectrometry, particularly through his innovative designs that enhance the portability and efficiency of gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer systems.

Latest Patents

Coutts holds a patent for a "Mass spectrometer vacuum housing and pumping system." This invention features a vacuum housing and pumping system specifically designed for a portable gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer (GC/MS). The vacuum housing is constructed to minimize weight for portability while utilizing metal gasket sealed stainless steel, making it compatible with high vacuum operations. The pumping section includes a sorption (getter) pump to eliminate atmospheric leakage and outgassing contaminants, as well as an ion pump to remove argon from atmospheric leaks. This innovative GC/MS system has broad applications, including monitoring contaminants, hazardous materials, illegal drugs, and pollution, and is also valuable for chemical weapon treaty verification teams due to its lightweight and portable design.

Career Highlights

Coutts is affiliated with the University of California, where he continues to contribute to research and development in mass spectrometry. His work has been instrumental in advancing technologies that are crucial for environmental monitoring and safety.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Coutts has collaborated with esteemed colleagues such as John F Bushman and Terry W Alger. These partnerships have fostered innovation and have led to significant advancements in their respective fields.

Conclusion

Gerald W Coutts exemplifies the spirit of innovation in the field of mass spectrometry. His contributions, particularly through his patented technologies, have had a lasting impact on environmental monitoring and safety applications.