Piezoelectric pH sensors: AT-cut quartz resonators with amphoteric polymer films

Abstract

Piezoelectric AT-cut quartz resonators immersed in aqueous media, coated with cross-linked films of the random copolymer -{ 1), exhibit large frequency changes when the pH is changed in the vicinity of the isoelectric point of the polymer film. The frequency changes are attributed to changes in the viscoelastic properties of the films that occur during phase transitions between the isoelectric form and the cationic polymer (l-NMe2H+) present at low pH or the anionic polymer (1-C02") present at high pH. These phase transitions are accompanied by dramatic changes in acoustic energy attenuation, film thickness changes, and film surface energy, as indicated by acoustic impedance analysis, phase measurement interferometric microscopy, and contact angle measurements. The results are consistent with pH-dependent segregation of the isolectric and ionic phases within the bulk and between the bulk and the surface. The unique pH-sensing capabilities of the coated resonators, combined with their robustness, ease of fabrication, and low cost, provide a convenient approach for the measurement of "threshold" pH changes. Real-time measurements of enzymatic activity and microbe metabolism are demonstrated as examples of potential applications of these sensors.

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