QCMD 100

QCMD 100

A modular Quartz Crystal Microbalance with Dissipation – QCMD 100 instrument measures both frequency and dissipation, facilitating precise measurements of molecule-surface interactions. The modular platform allows you to choose the features you need.

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QCMD 110

QCMD 110

Enhanced single-channel Quartz Crystal Microbalance with Dissipation, QCMD 110, offers exceptional sensitivity in both frequency and dissipation, facilitating precise measurements of molecule-surface interactions.

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QCMD 400

QCMD 400

The multichannel Quartz Crystal Microbalance with Dissipation, QCMD 400, offers time-saving operations and superior sensitivity in both frequency and dissipation. It enables the measurement of molecule-surface interactions across a wide range of applications.

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Applications

Biomaterials

Biophysics

Biosensors

Layers & Coatings

Electrochemistry & Battery Research

Oil & Gas

Cleaning & Detergents

QCMD Instruments

QCMD Instruments

Measure on 4 sensors simultaneously

Save time by measuring on 4 sensors at the same time.

Individual control of conditions

Set the temperature, sample solution, and flow rate individually for each cell and monitor how these affect the binding event.

High Precision

Accurate measurements of both frequency and dissipation providing bound mass and viscoelasticity of the layer.

QuickLock Cell

The QuickLock cell allows for very easy sensor placement. Its transparent lid enables the user to view the sensor during the measurement.

Unparalleled Sensitivity

High-frequency measurements (HFF-QCM) flow cell for high sensitivity and low-volume measurements (volume 5.5 μL).

Cell Modules

Electrochemical cell for simultaneous electrochemistry and QCMD measurements. Other modules available for static, in-batch, and dipping measurements.

Our Technology

QCMD technology is a highly effective analytical tool designed to detect minute changes in mass, viscoelastic properties, or the morphology of films on a sensor’s surface. By utilising the piezoelectric properties of quartz crystal sensors, QCMD instruments deliver exceptionally sensitive measurements. Choosing the appropriate sensor type is essential to obtain the best results for your specific application.

The Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) technology operates by exploiting the intrinsic properties of a quartz crystal resonator. When an alternating electric voltage is applied to the crystal, it undergoes mechanical oscillations at a particular frequency.

As molecules or thin films are deposited onto the sensor’s surface, they cause changes in mass, density, and viscoelastic properties. These changes alter the resonant frequency and dissipation of the crystal. The resonant frequency (blue curve) shifts in proportion to the added mass, allowing for precise measurement of mass changes. Concurrently, changes in dissipation (orange curve) reflect variations in the energy dissipated during the crystal’s oscillation, providing insights into the viscoelastic properties of the deposited material.

By monitoring both the frequency shift and dissipation changes over time, researchers can gather comprehensive information about the adsorbed layers, including their mass, thickness, rigidity, and solvent content. This capability makes QCMD a powerful tool for studying processes such as thin film formation, biomolecular interactions, surface chemistry, and material characterization.

In both research and industrial applications, QCMD technology plays a vital role in fields ranging from biotechnology and pharmaceuticals to materials science and nanotechnology.

In the image on the right, you can see the frequency and dissipation changes during liposome injection as it spreads into a lipid bilayer on the sensor surface.

Advantages of QCMD

Advantages of QCMD
  • Real-time measurement: Allows continuous monitoring of adsorption processes as they occur.
  • Label-free approach: Preserves the physiological relevance by avoiding the need for external tags or markers.
  • Quantitative analysis: Provides precise measurement of the bound mass on surfaces.
  • High sensitivity: Utilizes high frequency QCM sensors (HFF-QCM) for unparalleled detection capabilities.
  • Phase behaviour profiling: Study phase behavior of lipids, liquid crystals, and polymers.
  • Complex media compatibility: Works with various media including milk and seawater, expanding the application range.
  • Wet mass measurement: Includes liquid incorporated in the film.
  • Layer softness and viscoelasticity: Assesses the mechanical properties of thin films.
  • Layer thickness characterization: Measures and monitors the thickness of layers deposited on surfaces.
  • Versatility: Effective in both gas and liquid environments, making it adaptable to different experimental conditions.
  • Electrochemical combination: Can be combined with electrochemistry using a dedicated cell, enhancing experimental versatility.
  • High temperature and high pressure modules: Suitable for extreme conditions, allowing measurements at elevated temperatures.
  • User-friendly: Features fast and easy-to-use instruments and software, ensuring accessibility and efficiency for users.

Downloads

Contact Information

Graham Johnston – CEO
grahamj@fintiedesolutions.com | +44 (0) 7977926418

Andrew Johnston – Business Operations
andrew.johnston@fintiedesolutions.com | +44 (0) 7881202815