QCM Research

Contamination and Outgassing Detection Products
For Laboratories and Aerospace

What is a QCM?

The Quartz Crystal Microbalance or QCM is an ingenious device that can measure molecules or contaminants in a vacuum environment. Our specially prepared crystals are so sensitive they can measure molecules well below the mono-molecular level. When molecules accumulate on the crystal surface, the crystal reacts in a linear mass-to-frequency relationship, making calculations much easier. By changing the temperature of the crystal, one can look for specific molecules by adjusting the temperature of the crystal to the condensation point of specific gases. When finished, the condensation can be burned off to prepare for the next measurement. By slowly raising the temperature one can determine partial or mixed molecules using Thermogravimetric analysis…

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The Quartz Crystal Microbalance or QCM is an ingenious device that can measure molecules or contaminants in a vacuum environment. Our specially prepared crystals are so sensitive they can measure molecules well below the mono-molecular level. When molecules accumulate on the crystal surface, the crystal reacts in a linear mass-to-frequency relationship, making calculations much easier. By changing the temperature of the crystal, one can look for specific molecules by adjusting the temperature of the crystal to the condensation point of specific gases. When finished, the condensation can be burned off to prepare for the next measurement. By slowly raising the temperature one can determine partial or mixed molecules using Thermogravimetric analysis.

Most of our QCMs have a temperature sensor built in. Additionally, our Thermoelectric QCM line or TQCMs have a peltier heat exchanger making it possible to heat or cool the crystals to a specific temperature. Our Cryogenic QCM line has a heater only, (no cooling) but is capable of operating in more extreme temperatures. Our Passive line of QCMs have no temperature control. They are used for measuring accumulated contaminants over the life of a product, for example.

QCMs are connected via cable to one of our controllers or Control/Data Acquisition Units, the M2000 for lab work and the M3000 for flight. These are then connected by cable to a host computer. We also produce a wide assortment of lab quality cables in custom lengths and configurations.

Suitable for use in both vacuum chambers and for flight use, QCMs are proven, ruggedized, and have an excellent flight history. They can be customized for your specific application. Contact our pleasant and competent staff to discuss how QCMs can help you meet your goals and objectives.

Thermoelectric Quartz
Crystal Microbalance

Available in four models:

Mark 16 Mark 17 Mark 18 Mark 19

TQCM

Thermoelectric Quartz
Crystal Microbalance
Thermoelectric Quartz Crystal Microbalances, or TQCMs, are thermoelectrically controlled QCMs. They have an internal peltier heat exchanger which can either heat or cool the QCM to aid in both collecting condensables and then boiling them off later. They are available in four models: the MK10, MK20, MK24, and MK26. They utilize a Peltier element to…
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Thermoelectric Quartz Crystal Microbalances, or TQCMs, are thermoelectrically controlled QCMs. They have an internal peltier heat exchanger which can either heat or cool the QCM to aid in both collecting condensables and then boiling them off later. They are available in four models: the MK10, MK20, MK24, and MK26. They utilize a Peltier element to heat or cool the crystals to provide full temperature control. This feature makes the TQCMs very versatile.

The MK10 has been very popular and they are in use in vacuum chambers around the world. The MK20 and its successor the MK26, come in four packages for specific applications. They can be further customized with different crystal frequencies to increase molecular sensitivity or larger mass measurements. The MK24 is the smallest and lightest TQCM at 15mm in length and weighing only 4 grams. The MK24 can be ordered with specific crystal frequency options as well.

Ideal for vacuum chamber / lab work, TQCMs are also of a rugged design able to withstand shock and vibration. Flight qualified versions are also available with complete environmental testing to your specifications. Contact us to help determine which TQCM best suits your specific requirements.

Available in four models:

Mark 16 Mark 17 Mark 18 Mark 19

Cryogenic Quartz
Crystal Microbalances

Available in four models:

Mark 16 Mark 17 Mark 18 Mark 19

CQCM

Cryogenic Quartz
Crystal Microbalances
Cryogenic Quartz Crystal Microbalances, or CQCMs, come in four models: the MK16, MK17, MK18, and MK19, providing a variety of mounting options, cable options, and modifications for specific needs. They can be ordered with two different crystal frequencies, 10MHz, and 15MHz…

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Cryogenic Quartz Crystal Microbalances, or CQCMs, come in four models: the MK16, MK17, MK18, and MK19, providing a variety of mounting options, cable options, and modifications for specific needs. They can be ordered with two different crystal frequencies, 10MHz, and 15MHz. Changing the crystal frequency provides a customizable range of sensitivity measurement. You may choose to increase the sensitivity of the QCM at the cost of the total measurable mass, or increase the total measurable mass with decreased sensitivity, depending on your needs. CQCMs can be ordered to Standard Temperature (-199 to 100°C) or Low Temperature use (10 to 400K).

Perfect for use in vacuum chambers, flight qualified versions are also available with complete environmental testing to your specifications. Contact us to help determine which CQCMs best suit your specific requirements.

Available in four models:

Mark 16 Mark 17 Mark 18 Mark 19
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