Paper-based electrochromic glucose sensor with polyaniline on indium tin oxide nanoparticle layer as the optical readout

Abstract

Surging interests in point-of-care diagnostics have led to the development of many lightweight and cost-effective paper-based sensors. Particularly, sensors using colorimetric readouts are considered highly advantageous because no additional detector or device is required for signal display. Herein, we introduce an electrochemically operated colorimetric sensor that can compensate for the disadvantages of traditional colorimetry, hence enhancing response time, reusability and color uniformity. On a single paper substrate, carbon/graphite paste was screen printed to form the working and counter electrodes, and Ag/AgCl ink was applied for the reference electrode. Prussian blue and Glucose oxidase were employed on the one of the carbon electrodes for the detection of analytes, hydrogen peroxide and glucose. For the colorimetric readout, indium tin oxide nanoparticles and polyaniline were consecutively introduced on the other carbon electrode, which is used as the counter electrode. The color change of electrochromic polyaniline could be clearly observed, and its application as a colorimetric sensor was demonstrated by the quantitative analyses of hydrogen peroxide and glucose. This paper-based electrochromic glucose sensor showed a short response time of 30 s and exhibited a detection limit of 126 μM for glucose. Along with its rapid and easy detection by incorporating the merits of electrochemical sensing and colorimetry, the paper-based electrochromic sensor could potentially contribute to the development of point-of-care devices by combination with portable power sources.