Reagent Dispensing & Line Coating
What it is
The process of dispensing test and control lines onto nitrocellulose membrane, and conjugate onto the conjugate pad, using precision dispensers.
How it works
Antibody solutions are applied at a controlled flow rate and line width to produce sharp, uniform lines; conjugate is sprayed onto the conjugate pad before drying.
Why it matters
Line sharpness and uniformity directly determine readability and reproducibility — inconsistent dispensing is a primary source of batch-to-batch variation.
Key components
- Precision dispenser (line / air-jet)
- Line width and density control
- Conjugate pad spraying
- Membrane coating inspection
Applications
- Dispensing test and control lines onto nitrocellulose
- Spraying conjugate onto the conjugate pad
- Controlling line width and density
What affects performance
- Dispensing flow rate and line width
- Antibody solution concentration
- Membrane wettability
- Line uniformity
Limitations
- Line-width variation affects readability
- Inconsistent dispensing causes batch variation
- Improper dispensing can damage the membrane
Common failure modes
- Line-width variation from inconsistent flow rate
- Membrane damage from improper dispensing
- Uneven coating causing batch-to-batch variation
Frequently Asked Questions
What is reagent dispensing? Precisely applying test/control-line antibodies onto the membrane and conjugate onto the conjugate pad.
Why does line sharpness matter? Sharp, uniform lines are easier to read and more reproducible across lots.
Related knowledge
References
- Posthuma-Trumpie GA, Korf J, van Amerongen A. Lateral flow (immuno)assay: its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. Anal Bioanal Chem. 2009;393(2):569-582.
- 胶体金免疫层析法定性检测试剂技术审评要点（NMPA technical review）. ivdmat.com.
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Written by the Progene Bio Technical Team · Last reviewed: 2026-09-12