Affinity mass sensors: concept and general considerations

The concept of affinity mass sensors is proposed. A how-through model has b een set up for affinity mass sensors. The response curves for this type of sensor are predicted by numerical simulation. The theoretical relations bet ween the nature of the affinity reactions and the performance of the affini ty mass sensors have been studied systematically for the first time. By cho osing an affinity reaction with a suitable value for the dissociation rate constant, the response of the sensor will recover in a short time, making r e-use of the sensor possible. The operating parameters that affect the perf ormance of the affinity mass sensors are also studied theoretically. (C)200 0 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.