A Comparison of Different Strategies for The Modification of Quartz Tuning Forks Based Mass Sensitive Sensors Using Natural Melanin Nanoparticles

Abstract

Quartz tuning fork (QTF) is a measurement tool that is gaining attraction nowadays due to remarkable features like their low cost, stable resonance frequency, and considerably low working frequency. However how to functionalize a QTF as a chemical or a physical sensor is still an important problem that needs to be solved for a widespread usage. This paper describes approaches to functionalize QTFs by utilizing melanin nanoparticles (MNP) in order to create a recognition layer for the creation of a target specific mass sensitive biosensor. In order to achieve this aim, electroplating and dip coating methods are chosen for their relative ease of use and cheap operating costs for the purpose of being industry-friendly and reproducible as a product for field applications. Moreover a comparative study on chemical etching of QTFs was conducted with the goal of improving MNP attachment during dip coating process.