Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy-Based Sensing of Biofilms: A Comprehensive Review

Biosensors (Basel). 2023 Jul 31;13(8):777. doi: 10.3390/bios13080777.

Abstract

Biofilms are complex communities of microorganisms that can form on various surfaces, including medical devices, industrial equipment, and natural environments. The presence of biofilms can lead to a range of problems, including infections, reduced efficiency and failure of equipment, biofouling or spoilage, and environmental damage. As a result, there is a growing need for tools to measure and monitor levels of biofilms in various biomedical, pharmaceutical, and food processing settings. In recent years, electrochemical impedance sensing has emerged as a promising approach for real-time, non-destructive, and rapid monitoring of biofilms. This article sheds light on electrochemical sensing for measuring biofilms, including its high sensitivity, non-destructive nature, versatility, low cost, and real-time monitoring capabilities. We also discussed some electrochemical sensing applications for studying biofilms in medical, environmental, and industrial settings. This article also presents future perspectives for research that would lead to the creation of reliable, quick, easy-to-use biosensors mounted on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), utilizing artificial intelligence-based terminologies to detect biofilms.

Keywords: biofilms; biosensors; electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Artificial Intelligence*
  • Biofilms
  • Biofouling*
  • Dielectric Spectroscopy
  • Electric Impedance

Grants and funding

This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation/EPSCoR RII Track-1: Building on the 2020 Vision: Expanding Research, Education and Innovation in South Dakota, Award OIA-1849206 and by the South Dakota Board of Regents.