Phononic Crystal Sensors: A New Class of Resonant Sensors—Chances and Challenges for the Determination of Liquid Properties

Resonant mechanical sensors are often considered as mass balance, which responds to an analyte adsorbed on or absorbed in a thin sensitive (and selective) layer deposited the surface of resonant device. In more general sense, sensor measures properties at interface resonator medium under inspection . A phononic crystal (PnC) employs resonance well; however, working principle is fundamentally different. The liquid becomes integral part PnC sensor. liquid-filled compartment acts resonator. Therefore, probes entire volume within this compartment. both concepts, primary value frequency. To become attractive new sensing concept, specifically bio and chemical sensor, must reach extraordinary sensitivity. We pay attention viscosity, important factor limiting main our analysis has been performed 1D sensors, since they underlie same material-related acoustic dissipation mechanisms 2D 3D sensors. show that optimal relation frequency shift bandwidth amplitude key enhanced sensitivity sensor-to-liquid properties. finally address additional challenges design concept. conclude should seek for resolution close 10 ?6 probing frequency, with speed sound approaching 1 mm s ?1 , taking water-based analytes example.