An RF-powered micro-reactor for the detection of astrobiological target molecules on planetary bodies.

We describe a sample-processing micro-reactor that utilizes 60 GHz RF radiation with approximately 730 mW of output power. The instrument design and performance characterization are described and then illustrated with modeling and experimental studies. The micro-reactor's efficiency on affecting hydrolysis of chemical bonds similar to those within large complex molecules was demonstrated: a disaccharide-sucrose-was hydrolyzed completely under micro-reactor conditions. The products of the micro-reactor-facilitated hydrolysis were analyzed using mass spectroscopy and proton nuclear magnetic resonance analytical techniques.