Bulk and Surface Acoustic Wave Biosensors for Milk Analysis

Abstract

Milk and dairy products are common foods and, therefore, are subject to regular controls. Such controls cover both the identification and quantification of specific components and the determination of physical parameters. Components include the usual milk ingredients, mainly carbohydrates, proteins, and fat, and any impurities that may be present. The latter range from small molecules, such as drug residues, to large molecules, e.g., protein-based toxins, to pathogenic microorganisms. Physical parameters of interest include viscosity as an indicator of milk gelation. Bulk and surface acoustic wave sensors, such as quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) and surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices, can principally be used for both types of analysis, with the actual application mainly depending on the device coating and the test format. This review summarizes the achievements of acoustic sensor devices used for milk analysis applications, including the determination of physical liquid parameters and the detection of low- and high-molecular-weight analytes and microorganisms. It is shown how the various requirements resulting from the respective analytes and the complex sample matrix are addressed, and to what extent the analytical demands, e.g., with regard to legal limits, are met.

A nivalenol imprinted quartz crystal microbalance sensor based on sulphur-incorporating cobalt ferrite and its application to rice samples

“…18 A quartz crystal microbalance (QCM), a type of mass-based sensor, demonstrates the activity by measuring mass differences on the surface of the sensor. 19 As an analytical tool, QCM sensors are simple, sensitive, selective, economical, easy to use and stable. 20 Using a QCM in food analysis is practical and convenient and it is frequently used in food safety.…”

“…20 Using a QCM in food analysis is practical and convenient and it is frequently used in food safety. 19 Therefore, QCM analysis has been included in the literature as a good option for the detection of NIV in foods. 21 Ferrites as popular catalysts for sensor applications provide many benets due to their catalytic activity, corrosion resistance and low cost.…”

“…20 Using a QCM in food analysis is practical and convenient and it is frequently used in food safety. 19 Therefore, QCM analysis has been included in the literature as a good option for the detection of NIV in foods. 21…”

Molecular Methods for Detecting Microorganisms in Beverages

“…The method of surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) in combination with the use of solid-phase substrates based on Au nanostars makes it possible to quickly and effectively detect pathogens in beverages [12]. The detection of pathogens in milk using QCM immunosensors is possible, but only if high concentrations are reached after several hours of incubation [13].…”

Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) Sensors for Hip Implant: A Numerical and Computational Feasibility Investigation Using Finite Element Methods

“…Following the research gaps, there is still a research opportunity to build intrusive sensors with compact size, cheap manufacturing cost, robust operation in severe environments and the ability to work passively and wirelessly by attaching an antenna [35,36]. The SAW sensor system is a feasible alternative since it is a well-established sensor system that is frequently utilised in medical applications.…”