Detection of the Au thin-layer in the Hz per picogram regime based on the microcantilevers

Through the use of oscillating microcantilevers, a micromechanical mass detection with a resolution of a Hz per picogram regime is reported. Through MEMS processes, piezoelectric microcantilevers that are simultaneously capable of self-actuation and the electrical measurement of resonant frequencies were fabricated. Mass detection in the Hz per picogram regime is demonstrated with a deposition of an An thin-layer, of which the thickness is precisely controlled. In addition, it is shown that a scaling down of the microcantilevers enhances the sensitivity during the micromechanical mass detection. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.