Quartz Crystal Microbalance Sensor Research Articles

Synthesis and characterization of molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles against porcine circovirus type 2 viral-like particles.

PCV2 is a significant epidemic agricultural pathogen that causes a variety of swine diseases. PCV2 infections have significant economic impact on the swine industry, making effective strategies for rapid detection of PCV2 in pigs essential. Herein, we report on the synthesis of the so-called nano-MIPs which can be utilized for molecular recognition of PCV2. The morphology and structure of nano-MIPs were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Nano-MIPs are spherical with sizes around 120-150nm. Binding experiments demonstrate that the fluorescence intensity of PCV2 samples decreases proportionally to increasing the concentration of nano-MIPs due to quenching, while non-imprinted polymer nanoparticles (nano-NIPs) do not affect the signal. The Stern-Volmer constant of nano-MIPs binding to PCV2 was 1.3 × 10-3mL/µg, whereas nano-NIPs led to 7 × 10-5mL/µg, i.e., 1.8 orders of magnitude lower. The detection limit for binding MIP particles to PCV2 by fluorescence measurements is 47µg/mL. This affinity test allows for designing both direct and competitive quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) assays for PCV2 leading to QCM measurements. The QCM results show nano-MIPs binding to PCV2 immobilized on the sensor surface with appreciable reproducibility. QCM sensor characteristics reveal signal saturation above around 200µg/mL at a response of - 354Hz and an LOD of approximately 35µg/mL. Nano-MIPs also show selectivity factors of 2-5 for CSFV and PRRSV probably because the three viruses have similar diameters around 50nm.

Robust Metal Oxide Adhesion Layers for Cellulose Nanofiber-Based QCM Sensors.

Here, we demonstrate the significant role of robust metal oxide adhesion layers on the cellulose nanofiber (CNF)-based quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) humidity sensor characteristics including sensitivity and stability. In this study, we deposited various metal oxide films (NiO, TiO2, ZnO, and WO3) onto QCM Au electrodes as adhesion layers before drop-casting CNF dispersion water. These metal oxide adhesion layers significantly enhanced the stability of CNF films on QCM sensors even in a high-humidity environment where a conventional adhesion layer (polyethylenimine) for CNF could not maintain stable adhesion. There was a significant difference between different metal oxide layers in the QCM data for humidity sensing. We found a negative correlation between the QCM sensitivity and the water wettability of metal oxide surfaces. Morphology analysis of the deposited CNF films revealed that the center-concentrated CNF microstructures on the metal oxide adhesion layers rigorously explained the observed negative correlation between the sensitivity and the wettability of metal oxide surfaces. This trend was further confirmed by gradually changing the hydrophobicity of the NiO adhesion surfaces. Thus, the proposed strategy using robust metal oxide adhesion layers will be a foundation for further development of various CNF-based QCM gas sensors.

Detection of CO2, H2S, NH3, and gas mixtures using a quartz crystal microbalance sensor array with five sensitive materials

The large-scale development of chicken farms has inevitably led to an increase in the emission of harmful gases, which has prompted rapid research development on the detection of harmful gases, such as quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensors. In this research, a QCM sensor array modified with ethyl cellulose (EC), polyethyleneimine (PEI), polypyrrole (PPy), tetramethylammonium fluoride tetrahydrate (TMAF), and Nitrogen-doped tungsten carbide supported on carbon nanosheets (WC@NC) was established to detect gas mixtures. By analyzing the relationship between the fundamental frequency shift and the number of sensitive material layers for the QCM sensor, the optimal number of layers was determined. The QCM sensor array consisted of a blank QCM sensor, an 8-layer EC sensor, a 4-layer PEI sensor, a 3-layer PPy sensor, an 8-layer TMAF sensor, and an 8-layer WC@NC sensor. The results showed that the PEI sensor exhibited maximum frequency shifts when detecting gases, while TMAF and WC@NC films had the highest contribution to NH3 detection. TMAF, PEI, and WC@NC played significant roles in the binary classification of exceeding the standard detection of NH3. Additionally, WC@NC and EC sensors played an important role in detecting H2S and CO2, respectively. The QCM sensor array could accurately classify the excessive state of CO2. Overall, the QCM sensor array demonstrated a correct recognition rate of 87.5 %, indicating its potential for classifying the exceedance of NH3, CO2, and H2S gases in gas mixtures. This work provides basic information for research on QCM sensor arrays in gas detection.

Copper abietate/polyvinyl acetate composite film for enhanced humidity sensing in Chinese herbal medicine monitoring systems

Sensing materials derived from natural and biodegradable sources are increasingly being developed and applied to realize environmentally friendly technologies. In this paper, we present the synthesis, characterization, and application of a novel copper abietate/polyvinyl acetate (CuA/PVAc) composite film, specifically engineered to enhance the humidity-sensing capabilities of Chinese herbal medicine monitoring systems. The sensing material was synthesized by strategically melding copper abietate, a natural renewable material, with PVAc to exploit their combined synergistic properties for optimal humidity-sensing performance. Comprehensive characterization techniques, including inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), water contact angle measurements, and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, were employed to confirm the formation of CuA/PVAc composites. These analyses confirmed the homogeneity and intended chemical composition of the composite films.The resultant CuA-1/PVAc-4 (0.4 μg/μL) composite film exhibited a good logarithmic relation (0.9988) with relative humidity (RH) over a wide range (11 %–97 %) and high sensitivity (24.55 Hz/%RH). Moreover, this study introduces a novel, eco-friendly approach by integrating the CuA/PVAc composite with a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensor and a sophisticated wireless circuit that enables real-time, Wi-Fi-based humidity monitoring tailored for the preservation of Chinese herbal medicines. The implementation of this wireless humidity detection system represents a significant advancement in the application of environmentally friendly materials in sensor technology and offers a practical and scalable approach for precise environmental monitoring.

Facile preparation of graphene oxide/Poly (N‐Isopropylacrylamide‐co‐acrylic acid) composite thin film and its quartz crystal microbalance humidity sensing property

AbstractThe composite microgels were synthesized from N‐Isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM) and acrylic acid (AA) monomers in the presence of graphene oxide (GO) using an in situ radical copolymerization method. The successful preparation of these composite microgels was investigated through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), ultraviolet visible absorption spectroscopy (UV–vis), and Raman spectroscopy. Due to the hydrophilic properties of GO and the microgels containing oxygenated groups (OH, COOH, and CONH2), quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensors can be fabricated by spraying the GO/P(NIPAM‐co‐AA) dispersion onto QCM sensors as sensitive coating materials. The results indicate a notable enhancement in the performance of GO/P(NIPAM‐co‐AA) modified QCM humidity sensor, compared to QCM sensors modified with either GO or P(NIPAM‐co‐AA) microgels alone. This improvement is mainly evidenced by higher sensitivity and reduced moisture hysteresis. The humidity sensing mechanism is based on the combined effect of GO and P(NIPAM‐co‐AA) microgels, which synergistically enhance the sensor's performance. Additionally, the results from water contact angle measurements, laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM), and scanning electron microscope (SEM) show that GO/P(NIPAM‐co‐AA) exhibits greater roughness and stronger hydrophilicity than either GO or P(NIPAM‐co‐AA) microgels alone. These properties make GO/P(NIPAM‐co‐AA) an effective moisture‐sensitive material for QCM sensors.

Comparative Analysis of QCM and Electrochemical Aptasensors for SARS-CoV-2 Detection.

The rapid and accurate detection of SARS-CoV-2, particularly its spike receptor-binding domain (S-RBD), was crucial for managing the COVID-19 pandemic. This study presents the development and optimization of two types of aptasensors: quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) and electrochemical sensors, both employing thiol-modified DNA aptamers for S-RBD detection. The QCM aptasensor demonstrated exceptional sensitivity, achieved by optimizing aptamer concentration, buffer composition, and pre-treatment conditions, with a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.07 pg/mL and a linear range from 1 pg/mL to 0.1 µg/mL, and a significant frequency change was observed upon target binding. The electrochemical aptasensor, designed for rapid and efficient preparation, utilized a one-step modification process that reduced the preparation time to 2 h while maintaining high sensitivity and specificity. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) enabled the detection of S-RBD concentrations as low as 132 ng/mL. Both sensors exhibited high specificity, with negligible non-specific interactions observed in the presence of competing proteins. Additionally, the QCM aptasensor's functionality and stability were verified in biological fluids, indicating its potential for real-world applications. This study highlights the comparative advantages of QCM and electrochemical aptasensors in terms of preparation time, sensitivity, and specificity, offering valuable insights for the development of rapid, sensitive, and specific diagnostic tools for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 and other viruses.

Efficient Citronellal Detection in Essential Oils: A Molecular Imprinted Polymer-Based Quartz Crystal Microbalance Sensor Approach

Efficient Citronellal Detection in Essential Oils: A Molecular Imprinted Polymer-Based Quartz Crystal Microbalance Sensor Approach

Advancements in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia detection: Development and evaluation of a novel QCM aptasensor for use in clinical practice

Oncological diseases represent a significant global health challenge, with high mortality rates. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment, and aptamers, which demonstrate superior specificity and stability compared to antibodies, offer a promising avenue for diagnostic advancement. This study presents the design, development and evaluation of a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensor functionalized with the T2-KK1B10 aptamer for the sensitive and specific detection of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) K562 cells. The research focuses on optimizing the biorecognition layer by adjusting the aptamer conditions, demonstrating the sensor's ability to detect these CML cells with high specificity and sensitivity. The aptamer-modified QCM sensor operates on the principle of mass change detection upon binding of target cells. By employing the Langmuir isotherm model, the performance of the sensor was optimized for the capture of CML cells from biological samples with LOD of 263 K562 cells. The sensor was also successfully regenerated multiple times without sensitivity loss. Validation of the sensor's performance was conducted under controlled laboratory settings, followed by extensive testing utilizing human lyophilized plasma and clinical samples from patients. The sensor exhibited high sensitivity and specificity in the detection of CML cells within clinical specimens, thereby illustrating its potential for practical clinical deployment. This research presents a novel approach to the early diagnosis of CML, facilitating timely intervention and enhanced patient outcomes. The developed aptasensor demonstrates potential for broader application in cancer diagnostics and personalized medicine.

Sensing performance of Schiff base-calix[4]arene including amide units for detection of pharmaceutically active compounds on QCM sensor system

This study aimed to investigate the sensing performance of a Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) sensor coated with a calix[4]arene derivative (calixarene phenol amide, CPhA), containing both Schiff base and amide groups against various pharmaceutically active compounds (PhACs) such as ibuprofen, diphenhydramine, naproxen, and ascorbic acid in aqueous media. CPhA was successfully coated on the QCM crystal surface, and its surface properties were studied using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and contact angle measurements. Sensing studies showed that the CPhA-coated QCM sensor detected more PhACs than the compound 4 (unfunctionalized derivative)-coated sensor. The highest frequency variation and binding ratio values were achieved with the QCM sensor with a relatively low coating amount. The CPhA-coated QCM sensor achieved higher adsorption capacity and was significantly more sensitive to all PhACs than the compound 4-coated one. The fabricated sensor showed remarkable reproducibility for all PhACs except naproxen (NAP). The fabricated sensor exhibited a remarkable sensing performance for detecting PhACs, which is promising for developing novel calix[4]arene-coated QCM sensors for PhACs.

Sol-Gel Transition of a Thermo-Responsive Polymer at the Closest Solid Interface.

Thermo-responsive polymers are applied as surface modifications for the temperature switching of hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties through adsorption and grafting on solid substrates. The current understanding of the influence of polymer chains bound to the solid surface on the transition behavior of thermo-responsive polymers is rather restricted. In this study, we aim to elucidate the effect of the bound polymer chains at the interface on the thermo-responsive sol-gel transition behavior of aqueous methylcellulose (MC) solutions by employing a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) to evaluate the shear modulus near the solid interface. When the sample thickness was thinner on the order of the millimeter scale, the sol-gel transition temperature evaluated by the cloud point decreased because the condensation of MC near the solid interface promoted the sol-gel transition. On the other hand, focusing on the closest solid interface on the nanometer scale by QCM, the sol-gel transition temperature increased when approaching the solid interface. Adsorption and interfacial interactions reduced the chain mobility and restrained the sol-gel transition by preventing MC chain aggregation. We demonstrated the physical properties evaluation at the closest interface between the thermo-responsive polymer and solid substrate by combining a simple analytical model of QCM and controlling the analytical depth of the QCM sensors. In conclusion, the mobility change of the bound polymer chains at the solid interface caused by adsorption and interfacial interactions must be considered when a thermo-responsive polymer is applied as in adsorbed or thin films on solid substrates for the functionalization of biomaterials.

Novel carbon quantum dots enhanced carbon nanotubes-graphene hybrid nanocomposite for VOCs detection

In recent years, researchers have shown a significant interest in exploring carbon-based nanomaterials for their potential applications in sensing technologies. This study introduces the development of an innovative composite material through the integration of quantum dots with carbon nanotubes and graphene. This nanohybrid composite serves as a sensing material for detecting ethanol at room temperature. The carbon quantum dots (CQD) used in this study were synthesized through a solvothermal process and integrated with carbon nanotubes (CNT) and graphene nanoplates (GNP) to investigate the synergistic effects on the composite's structure and its sensing properties. The resulting hybrid composite was applied as a sensitive film onto the surface of a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensor. The hybrid nanocomposite-based sensor demonstrated significantly enhanced sensing sensitivity. At an ethanol concentration of 500 ppm, the CQD-enhanced CNT-GNP composite exhibited approximately 10- and 15-fold higher responses compared to CNT- and GNP-coated sensors, respectively. The response/recovery times of the CQD-enhanced CNT-GNP composite sensor were approximately 2/0.5 min, respectively. The sensor maintained reasonable repeatability and good recovery. The findings highlight the remarkable synergistic effects observed in the sensing performance of carbon-based nanohybrids, demonstrating the promising potential of this approach to enhance the sensitivity of such sensors.

Investigation of the free-base Zr-porphyrin MOFs as relative humidity sensors for an indoor setting

Maintaining optimal relative humidity is paramount for human comfort. Therefore, the utilization of quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) as a relative humidity sensor platform holds significant promise due to its cost-effectiveness and high sensitivity. This study explores the efficacy of three free-base Zr porphyrin metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) - namely MOF-525, MOF-545, and NU-902 - as sensitive materials for QCM-based relative humidity sensors. Our extended experimental findings reveal that these materials exhibit notable sensitivity, particularly within relative humidity ranges of 40–100 %. However, we observe potential irreversible adsorption sites within the MOF-545 framework, hindering its ability to revert to its initial state after prolonged exposure. In light of this observation, we conduct periodic cycling experiments at relative humidity levels of 40–70 % to evaluate the measurement repeatability and feasibility of these sensors for indoor applications. Interestingly, the periodic cycling study demonstrates that MOF-545 shows promising repeatability, positioning it as a strong contender for indoor relative humidity sensing. In contrast, MOF-525 may necessitate extended desorption time, and NU-902 displays diminished sensitivity at low relative humidity levels. Nevertheless, a preliminary treatment of the MOF-545 QCM sensor may be necessary to address irreversible adsorption sites and uphold measurement repeatability, as only reversible adsorption sites are currently accessible. This study underscores the potential of MOF-based QCM sensors for effective relative humidity monitoring in indoor environments, thus facilitating improved comfort and environmental control.

MgAl-LDH nanoflowers as a novel sensing material for high-performance humidity sensing.

This work details a novel application of MgAl-LDH nanoflowers, applied in the fabrication of humidity sensors using quartz crystal microbalance (QCM). An oscillating circuit approach has been utilized to thoroughly investigate the humidity detection characteristics of QCM sensors that are fabricated using MgAl-LDH nanoflowers. The examination encompassed various parameters such as the sensors' response, humidity hysteresis, repeatability, and stability. Experimental results clearly indicate that these MgAl-LDH nanoflower-based QCM sensors exhibit a distinct logarithmic frequency response to varying moisture levels. Notably, the sensitivity of the sensors is intricately tied to the amount of MgAl-LDH nanoflowers utilized during the deposition process. Moreover, these sensors maintain remarkable stability across a wide humidity range spanning from 11% to 97% RH. Additionally, the MgAl-LDH nanoflower-based QCM sensors possess minimal humidity hysteresis and display swift dynamic response and recovery periods, further highlighting their potential for humidity detection applications.

Recent Progress in the Applications of UIO-66 Materials: A Review

The integration of different disciplines is the core of the application orientation of UIO-66 materials, and it has expanded the boundaries of the application field of UIO-66 materials by exploring infinite space in chemical composition and material properties. Significant advancements have been achieved in utilizing the distinct characteristics of UIO-66 materials, both in basic and practical terms. In this review, our aim is to examine the key achievements in utilizing UIO-66 materials, encompassing areas like gas separation, catalysis, quartz crystal microbalance sensor and energy storage, and offer an essential viewpoint on their progress in practical applications. Finally, we succinctly address the primary obstacles that must be tackled in these domains to lay the groundwork for industrial utilization.

A game-changing equation during the etching of tuning forks and its verification through experiments

Quartz tuning fork (QTF) sensors, characterized by simplicity, low cost, and high-quality factor, represent a significant subset. This study delves into the etching dynamics of QTF systems, crucial for sensor applications like quartz crystal microbalance (QCM). Both theoretical and experimental investigations into QTF etching, via methods like electro-etching for large-scale tuning forks (TF) and low-pressure radio frequency (RF) plasma treatment for QTFs, have been conducted. Surprisingly, post-etching measurements reveal a lower vibrational frequency for both large-scale TFs and QTFs compared to their bare counterparts, unlike QCM sensors. A novel formula correlating this frequency reduction to mass loss has been proposed and validated through lots of experiments. Notably, longitudinal homogeneity emerges as a pivotal factor influencing the accuracy of the proposed formula. In summary, the novel mathematical framework presented herein is poised to catalyze the widespread adoption of low-cost QTFs as mass-sensitive biosensors, marking a significant advancement in the field.

Optimization of Electrospray Deposition Conditions of ZnO Thin Films for Ammonia Sensing.

This study focuses on the influence of electrospray deposition parameters on the morphology, topography, optical and sensing properties of ZnO films deposited on gold electrodes of quartz crystal resonators. The substrate temperature, precursor feed rate and emitter's voltage were varied. Zinc acetate dehydrate dissolved in a mixture of deionized water, ethanol and acetic acid was used as a precursor. The surface morphology and average roughness of the films were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and 3D optical profilometry, respectively, while the optical properties were investigated by diffuse reflectance and photoluminescence measurements. The sensing response toward ammonia was tested and verified by the quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) method. The studies demonstrated that electrospray deposition parameters strongly influence the surface morphology, roughness and gas sensing properties of the films. The deposition parameters were optimized in order for the highest sensitivity toward ammonia to be achieved. The successful implementation of the electrospray method as a simple, versatile and low-cost method for deposition of ammonia-sensitive and selective ZnO films used as a sensing medium in QCM sensors was demonstrated and discussed.

Highly sensitive QCM gas sensor based on ZIF-8-derived porous carbon and multi-walled carbon nanotubes decorated nanocomposite for salmon meat freshness detection

The concentration of amine gases are often used as an indicator of the freshness of seafood. However, currently used detection methods are usually complex to operate, have excessive time periods. Therefore, it is necessary to design and develop a sensor that can quickly and accurately detect a wide range of target amine gases with ease of operation and excellent performance. This paper demonstrated a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) gas sensor based on ZIF-8-derived porous carbon and multi-walled carbon nanotubes decorated nanocomposite (ZIF-C/MWCNTs). The ZIF-C/MWCNTs composite was successfully prepared by high temperature carbonization of ZIFs templates and room temperature diffusion method. Our prepared sensor was operated at room temperature (25℃) and relative humidity (35 %), the results indicated that the limit of detections (LODs) of the QCM sensor for methylamine (MA), trimethylamine (TMA), ammonia (NH3) and dimethylamine (DMA) were 3.12 μmoL·L−1, 1.44 μmoL·L−1, 1.97 μmoL·L−1 and 2.81 μmoL·L−1, respectively. Finally, the improved QCM sensor was used to detect salmon meat stored at 4℃ and these results of these assays were juxtaposed with those obtained through Microdiffusion as an indicator of salmon meat freshness. The sensor was expected to be a potential device to detect the freshness of instant seafood quickly and accurately.

Covalent-Organic-Framework-Modified Quartz Crystal Microbalance Sensor for Selective Detection of Hazardous Formic Acid.

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are a novel family of porous crystalline materials utilized in various advanced applications. However, applying COFs as a hazardous organic acid gas sensor is substantial but still challenging. Herein, a phenylenediamine-based covalent organic framework (TPDA-TPB COF) featuring excellent crystallinity, ultrastable thermal stability, and high surface area was successfully constructed. Then, the TPDA-TPB COF-modified quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensor is fabricated by immobilizing the TPDA-TPB COF thin film on the gold-QCM chip. The fabricated TPDA-TPB COF-modified QCM sensor demonstrates a rapid response, excellent reproducibility, high selectivity, and sensitivity to formic gas, arising from hydrogen-bonding interactions between formic acid and the outermost layer of the TPDA-TPB COF, as determined by extensive analysis and density functional theory calculations. The basic sites of the TPDA-TPB COF, which are numerous due to its high nitrogen content, and the carboxylic acid groups present in formic acid exhibit efficient interactions. The sensitivity of the TPDA-TPB COF-modified QCM sensor was found to be 7.75 Hz ppm-1 at standard room temperature and pressure conditions, with a limit of detection (LOD) of formic acid down to 1.18 ppm, which is significantly below the workplace olfactory threshold limit of 5.0 ppm established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. The TPDA-TPB COF-modified QCM sensor exhibits remarkable detecting capabilities, making it highly attractive for detecting organic acid vapors in diverse applications that require superior performance.

Synthesis and characterization of nitrogen-doped-MWCNT@cobalt oxide for nerve agent simulant detection

Organophosphorus nerve agents are toxic compounds that disrupt neuromuscular transmission by inhibiting the neurotransmitter enzyme, acetylcholinesterase, leading to rapid death. A hybrid composite was synthesized using a hydrothermal process for the early detection of dimethyl methyl phosphonate (DMMP), a simulant of the G-series nerve agent, sarin. Quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) and surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensors were used as detectors. Nitrogen-doped multiwalled carbon nanotubes (N-MWCNTs), cobalt oxide (Co3O4), and N-MWCNT@Co3O4 were compared to detect DMMP concentrations of 25–150 ppm. At 25 ppm, the differential frequencies (Δf) of the N-MWCNT, Co3O4, and N-MWCNT@Co3O4 sensors were 5.8, 2.3, and 99.5 Hz, respectively. The selectivity results revealed a preference for the DMMP rather than potential interference. The coefficients of determination (R2) of the N-MWCNT, Co3O4, and N-MWCNT@Co3O4 sensors for detecting 25–150 ppm DMMP were 0.983, 0.986, and 0.999, respectively. The response times of the N-MWCNT, Co3O4, and N-MWCNT@Co3O4 sensors for detecting 100 ppm DMMP were 25, 27, and 34 s, respectively, while the corresponding recovery times were 85, 105, and 181 s. The repeatability results revealed the reversible adsorption and desorption phenomena for the fixed DMMP concentration of 100 ppm. These unique findings show that synthesized materials can be used to detect organophosphorus nerve agents.

Antimicrobial release from a lipid bilayer titanium implant coating is triggered by Staphylococcus aureus alpha-haemolysin

Infections represent a significant challenge in joint replacements, often leading to the need for high-risk revision surgeries. There is an unmet need for novel technologies that are triggered by pathogens to prevent long-term joint replacement infections. The use of supported lipid bilayers (SLBs) with encapsulated antimicrobial agents, which are responsive to bacterial virulence factors, offers an exciting approach to achieving this goal. In this study, Ti was functionalised using octadecylphosphonic acid (ODPA) to form an SLB with an encapsulated antibiotic (novobiocin), effective against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Using the solvent-assisted method, the SLB with encapsulated novobiocin was developed on the surface of ODPA-modified Ti quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensors. QCM monitoring and fluorescence microscopy supported the successful formation of a planar SLB with encapsulated novobiocin. Incorporation of novobiocin in the SLB resulted in significantly reduced attachment and viability of S. aureus NCTC 7791, with no significant reduction in human bone marrow stromal cell viability. Additionally, in the presence of varying concentrations of α-haemolysin, a virulence factor from S. aureus, the SLB demonstrated a dose-dependent release pattern. The findings indicate the possibility of creating a biocompatible implant coating that releases an antimicrobial in the presence of a bacterial virulence factor, in a dose-dependent manner.