Application potential of liquid-phase acoustic wave devices as chemical and biochemical sensors

Summary Theoretical concept and potential ability of the bulk acoustic wave device as a liquid-phase sensor are discussed. The sensitivity of the sensor to liquid medium properties and to the device liquid-solid interface were evaluated. The surface free energy and interfacial viscosity are proved to have significant influence in determining the frequency responses, besides the effect of added mass. The experiments with biomolecules in the form of enzymes enhanced the selective detection capability and the potential of liquid-phase immunosensors application.