Electrolyte-Sensing Transistor Decals Enabled by Ultrathin Microbial Nanocellulose

Sci Rep. 2017 Jan 19:7:40867. doi: 10.1038/srep40867.

Abstract

We report an ultra-thin electronic decal that can simultaneously collect, transmit and interrogate a bio-fluid. The described technology effectively integrates a thin-film organic electrochemical transistor (sensing component) with an ultrathin microbial nanocellulose wicking membrane (sample handling component). As far as we are aware, OECTs have not been integrated in thin, permeable membrane substrates for epidermal electronics. The design of the biocompatible decal allows for the physical isolation of the electronics from the human body while enabling efficient bio-fluid delivery to the transistor via vertical wicking. High currents and ON-OFF ratios were achieved, with sensitivity as low as 1 mg·L-1.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biosensing Techniques / instrumentation
  • Biosensing Techniques / methods*
  • Cellulose / chemistry*
  • Chickens
  • Electrochemical Techniques
  • Electrolytes / analysis*
  • Gluconacetobacter xylinus / metabolism
  • Nanostructures / chemistry*
  • Porosity
  • Skin / metabolism
  • Transistors, Electronic*

Substances

  • Electrolytes
  • Cellulose