Biomaterials
BioNavis instruments can be applied to research a wide variety of biomaterials, such as biocompatible hydrogels, drug-loaded functional materials, antifouling coating materials, and biomembranes.
Applications in soft materials research
- Layer-by-Layer deposition monitoring, from nanometers up to micrometer-thick coatings!
- Monitoring of stimuli-response polymers or nanoparticles
- Monitoring film deposition (in situ or ex situ)
- Calculation of interaction kinetics and surface coverage (mass per surface area)
- Gas permeation monitoring for barrier coatings
- Monitoring swelling and hydration
- Monitoring drug release from polymer matrices
- Selection of suitable surface model and surface characterization
- Interaction studies of biomaterials with specific proteins, serum and plasma, biomembranes, cells and bacteria
- Membrane stability and quality (thickness and optical density) assessment

Comprehensive Biomaterial Characterization with MP-SPR
MP-SPR technology allows for a thorough characterization of biomaterials, from the characterization of their thickness and refractive index, to the assessment of swelling and resistance to biofouling, and the determination of kinetic constants. Or in other words, MP-SPR allows you to conduct a complete study of your material all the way from characterizing interactions with proteins, serum and plasma up to interactions with bacteria and cells.
Benefits of MP-SPR in soft materials research are
- Measurements possible in wet and dry environment – water/solvent swelling does not interfere
- Measurements possible at different pH, temperature, electric potential
- Layer thickness and refractive index measured
- On-line monitoring of nanofabrication (Layer-by-Layer)
- High sensitivity
- Combination of MP-SPR with electrochemistry
- Sensor recycling often possible
- Easy to use sensor slides and holder – the same substrate can be measured after real-time MP-SPR with AFM, XPS, etc.
- Easy handling of sensor slides for ex situ modification and measurements
Discover the world of MP-SPR
Biomaterial Characterization with complementary QCMD
QCMD provides powerful tools for studying biomaterial interactions at the molecular level, offering insights that can inform the design and development of new biomaterials for biomedical applications. QCMD provides quantitative data on biomaterial properties, such as mass changes, viscoelastic properties, and binding affinities. This quantitative analysis enables researchers to characterize biomaterials more precisely and compare different materials or experimental conditions (including concentration, temperature, solvent, and pH) quantitatively.
Benefits of QCMD in soft materials research are
- Measurements possible in wet and dry environment
- Measurements possible at different pH, temperature, electric potential
- Layer thickness measured
- On-line monitoring of Layer-by-Layer depositions
- Layer viscoelasticity measured
- Combination of QCMD with electrochemistry
- Measurement is refractive index independent
- Sensor slides can be modified / coated in situ or ex situ
Discover the world of QCMD
Selected MP-SPR application notes
Frequently asked questions
-
Can MP-SPR analyze the long-term stability of biomaterial surfaces?
Yes, MP-SPR tracks changes in surface properties over time, revealing degradation or structural shifts. This information helps assess biomaterial suitability for long-term applications.
-
How can antifouling properties of biomaterials be dertmined?
MP-SPR quantifies adsorption of e.g., proteins or 100% serum on biomaterials, allowing researchers to optimize antifouling properties. This ensures biomaterials remain functional in complex biological systems.
-
Is SPR able to measure micrometer-thick biomaterial coatings?
Due to the so-called waveguide phenomena and the measurements of complete SPR curve, BioNavis MP-SPR ca measure from nanometer up to micrometer thick layers and determine their thickness, for example.
-
How does QCMD help optimize the surface properties of biomaterials?
QCMD measures adsorption, hydration, and mechanical properties of biomaterial surfaces. This data is essential for fine-tuning biomaterials to achieve desired functionality.
-
Can QCMD measure degradation of biomaterials over time?
Yes, QCMD tracks real-time mass loss and dissipation changes as biomaterials degrade under various conditions. This provides insights into their stability and suitability for long-term applications.
-
Is QCMD suitable for studying protein adsorption on biomaterials?
Yes, QCMD quantifies protein adsorption on biomaterial surfaces. It also detects conformational changes, providing a comprehensive view of protein-material interactions.