Optimization of sensing film for quartz crystal microbalance odor sensor using self-assembly deposition method

We demonstrated a new self-assembly method using thiol compounds for making a sensing film with a desired specific response property, using the interaction between odor molecules and sensing film molecules due to their affinity. The sensing film was deposited self-assembly on a QCM with gold electrode in the mixed solution of sensing film materials and odor molecules. This method realizes easy fabrication of the sensor with a desired response property. In addition, we investigated response property of the sensor having a surface function group controlled sensing film by self-assembly method. In this experiment, amino group, hydroxyl group, and -CH/sub 3/ group were used for the function group. The results of a series of the sensor response measurement indicated the importance of the function groups on the sensing film surface and the necessity of controlling the surface.