Stainless steel plays an important role in research, particularly in advanced analytical techniques like Quartz Crystal Microbalance with Dissipation (QCM-D). Widely used in material interaction studies, stainless steel-coated QCM-D sensors help researchers analyze processes such as adsorption, deposition, and fouling, which highlight the alloy’s significance across both scientific research and industrial advancements. In this post, we talk more about the materials and how stainless steel-coated QCM-D sensors are designed to support surface interaction analysis in various applications.
Stainless steel – one of the most widely used materials in the world
Stainless steel is an alloy primarily composed of iron, chromium, and other elements such as nickel and molybdenum, which enhance its corrosion resistance and mechanical properties. This material is widely valued for its durability, strength, and ability to maintain structural integrity in harsh environments. The protective chromium oxide layer on its surface makes stainless steel highly resistant to rust and chemical degradation, making it indispensable in industries requiring long-lasting and hygienic materials.
Stainless steel - a collective name for a category of materials
Rather than being a single material, stainless steel refers to a family of corrosion-resistant steel alloys that all contain at least 10.5% chromium. The different types of Stainless Steel are suited for different applications, depending on its composition and properties. The most common type is austenitic stainless steel, which offers excellent corrosion resistance and flexibility due to its high chromium and nickel content. Other types include ferritic stainless steel, known for its magnetic properties and cost-effectiveness, martensitic stainless steel, which is harder and used in cutting tools, duplex stainless steel, which combines strength and corrosion resistance, and precipitation-hardening stainless steel, which excels in high-strength applications.
An interface material in many applications
Due to its abundant use, stainless steel is an important interface material in many applications, from biomedical implants to industrial processing equipment. Its surface interactions play a significant role in adhesion, biofouling, and corrosion resistance, making it an essential material for research and engineering. As such, it is widely used in scientific research, such as in surface and materials science. Examples where QCM-D analysis is used include surface interaction studies, cleaning applications, and in biological applications.
QSense Stainless steel surfaces – a representation of AISI 316
The stainless-steel surface used in these studies is the QSense sensor QSX 304, designed for use with QCM-D technology. Composed of SS2343, an austenitic stainless steel, it serves as an excellent representation of AISI 316. With a long-standing production history and an optimized manufacturing process, QSX 304 is supported by comprehensive documentation, ensuring its quality and applicability in studies requiring stainless steel 316 properties.
AISI 316 stainless steel is widely used due to its outstanding corrosion resistance, mechanical strength, thermal and chemical stability, and excellent weldability, making it suitable for various applications within industry segments.
Stainless Steel in QCM-D measurements
AISI 316 stainless steel plays a crucial role in QCM-D studies, where its durability and resistance to environmental factors make it ideal for analyzing surface interactions such as adsorption, deposition, and fouling. Industries including biomedical, food production, marine engineering, chemical processing, and heat exchangers rely on stainless steel-coated QCM-D sensors to enhance innovation and ensure reliability in diverse applications.
Download the overview to learn more about QSense stainless steel sensor
