Bangs Laboratories Now Producing Carboxylate-Modified Silica Microspheres

September 2000, Fishers, IN. Bangs Laboratories is now offering carboxylate-modified silica microspheres, manufactured at their new silica production laboratory in Fishers, Indiana. Carboxylate-modified silica microspheres will be supplied in sizes from approximately 0.3 to 5 microns in diameter. New surface-modified silica nicely compliments the Bangs Laboratories product line, facilitating new microsphere applications utilizing covalent ligand coupling.

Plain silica microspheres, with a natural silanol surface, have traditionally been used for adsorption of nucleic acids, as well as other applications independent of surface chemistry, like flat panel display spacers and velocimetry seed. The functionalization of silica microspheres with surface COOH groups allows for stable, permanent attachment of ligands. Possible benefits of carboxylate-modified silica microspheres over their polystyrene counterparts include more rapid settling/separation, unique optical-based tests utilizing low refractive index beads, better chemical and thermal stability, and greater rigidity.

For a copy of this article, or further information regarding various microsphere products and potential benefits for your application, please call Bangs Laboratories at 800-387-0672 or +1-317-570-7020, fax at +1-317-570-7034, or visit the company's Web site: http://www.bangslabs.com.