Kibron SuperG Ultra-Micro Balance
| Brand | Kibron |
|---|---|
| Origin | Finland |
| Model | SuperG 0.1 µg–5 mg |
| Measurement Range | 0.1 µg to 5 mg |
| Readability | 0.1 µg |
| Repeatability | ±0.2 µg |
| Stabilization Time (avg.) | 5 s |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | 300 × 200 × 165 mm |
| Power Supply | USB-powered (no external adapter required) |
| Compliance | CE, RoHS, ISO/IEC 17025-compatible calibration traceable to NIST standards |
Overview
The Kibron SuperG Ultra-Micro Balance is a high-precision, USB-powered analytical instrument engineered for quantitative mass measurement in the sub-microgram regime. Unlike conventional microbalances relying on electromagnetic force compensation with mechanical suspension systems, the SuperG employs a proprietary torsion-based transduction architecture optimized for ultra-low-mass stability and minimal thermal drift. Its operational principle centers on direct detection of minute gravitational torque changes induced by sample mass—enabling reliable static weighing down to 0.1 µg without active vibration isolation tables or climate-controlled enclosures. Designed specifically for surface science, lipidomics, and nanomaterial characterization, the SuperG delivers traceable, reproducible measurements of dried lipid monolayers, peptide films, polymer nanoparticles, and self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) directly on functionalized substrates. It operates exclusively as a computer-connected peripheral device, eliminating standalone display hardware to reduce electromagnetic noise and enhance signal integrity.
Key Features
- True ultra-micro readability of 0.1 µg with certified repeatability of ±0.2 µg across the full 0.1 µg–5 mg range
- USB-powered operation—no external power supply or grounding requirements; fully compatible with standard USB 2.0 ports
- Integrated torsion-sensor design with passive thermal compensation, minimizing sensitivity to ambient temperature fluctuations (±0.5 °C tolerance)
- 5-second average stabilization time for stable readings under typical laboratory conditions (20–25 °C, <40% RH)
- Compact footprint (300 × 200 × 165 mm) suitable for glove boxes, fume hoods, and confined cleanroom workstations
- CE-marked and RoHS-compliant; factory calibration traceable to NIST via accredited EU metrology labs per ISO/IEC 17025
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The SuperG is optimized for direct weighing of samples deposited on Kibron’s proprietary nano-dishes—low-profile, electrostatically shielded aluminum substrates with defined surface area (1.8 cm²), designed to minimize edge effects and adsorption artifacts. It supports dry-film analysis of lipids (e.g., DPPC, POPC), surfactants, synthetic polymers, and exosome preparations where absolute mass quantification below 1 ng is critical. The system complies with ASTM E898–22 (Standard Practice for Microbalance Use in Surface Chemistry) and supports GLP/GMP-aligned workflows through audit-trail-enabled software logging. All calibration certificates include uncertainty budgets compliant with EURAMET cg-18 guidelines for ultra-micro mass measurement.
Software & Data Management
Controlled via Kibron’s native SuperG Software (Windows XP–10 compatible), the balance provides real-time mass streaming, automatic zero-tracking, and programmable averaging intervals (1–60 s). Data export is native to CSV and Excel formats with embedded metadata (timestamp, operator ID, environmental log if external sensor connected). The software enforces 21 CFR Part 11–compliant user access control when deployed in regulated environments—supporting electronic signatures, session lockout, and immutable audit trails for all calibration, tare, and measurement events. Firmware updates are delivered via secure HTTPS channel with SHA-256 signature verification.
Applications
- Quantitative lipid monolayer mass determination in Langmuir trough experiments
- Mass-per-area calculation of protein-lipid complexes at air-water interfaces
- Verification of nanoparticle loading efficiency on functionalized carriers (e.g., liposomes, dendrimers)
- Gravimetric validation of thin-film deposition rates in ALD and CVD processes
- Residual solvent content analysis in lyophilized biopharmaceutical formulations
- Trace-level catalyst recovery assessment in heterogeneous catalysis studies
FAQ
Is the SuperG compatible with Windows 11 or macOS?
The current firmware and driver stack officially support Windows XP through Windows 10. Windows 11 compatibility is confirmed via Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP) testing; macOS operation is not supported due to kernel-level USB HID protocol restrictions.
Does the system require periodic recalibration?
Yes—annual recalibration is recommended per ISO/IEC 17025 and internal quality protocols. Kibron offers certified recalibration services with full uncertainty reporting and NIST-traceable reference masses.
Can the SuperG measure volatile or hygroscopic samples?
Only in controlled inert-atmosphere environments (e.g., nitrogen-purged glove box). The balance itself lacks an enclosure; users must implement external environmental shielding to prevent mass drift from vapor adsorption or evaporation.
What is the warranty coverage and service response time?
Kibron provides a 24-month limited warranty covering parts and labor. European service centers guarantee 5-business-day turnaround for diagnostic and repair; global customers receive priority shipping for loaner units during extended service cycles.
