Investigating a drop-on-demand microdispenser for standardized sample preparation

The existing assortment of reference sample preparation methods presents a range of variability and reproducibility concerns, making it increasingly difficult to assess chemical detection technologies on a level playing field. We are investigating a drop-on-demand table-top printing platform which offers precise liquid sample deposition and is well suited for the preparation of effective reference materials. Current research includes the development of a sample preparation protocol for explosive materials testing based on drop-on-demand technology. A quartz crystal microbalance and Raman spectroscopy are used to investigate droplet and sample uniformity and reproducibility. Results are compared to samples prepared using a drop and dry method.