Solidified liquid layer model expands the application fields of quartz crystal microbalance

The application of a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) in liquid is hindered by the complexity of data analysis. Recently, a "solidified liquid layer" (SLL) model has been proposed to simplify the data analysis. Here, missing evidence to support the SLL model is provided: 1) the SLL model is responsive to the density change of the liquid environment, 2) thickness values from the SLL model (T(SLL) ) are in agreement with values measured by ellipsometry. The SLL model predicts that a 0.18 nm change of T(SLL) will lead to a 1 Hz signal, which is the resolution that most commercial QCMs could easily achieve. Using the SLL model, Au-S bond breakage has been successful. Biosensor applications are also being designed according to the SLL model. It is believed that with these results, the SLL model will bring QCM back to the radar screen of scientists.