Novel solid inks based on beeswax, graphite and graphene applied to the fabrication of paper-based sensor for galactose determination

Abstract

In this study, we present for the first time a simple and novel method for the fabrication of paper-based electrochemical sensors. The device development was carried out in a single stage with a standard wax printer. Hydrophobic zones were delimited with commercial solid ink, while electrodes were generated using new composite solid inks of graphene oxide/graphite/beeswax (GO/GRA/beeswax) and graphite/beeswax (GRA/beeswax). Subsequently, the electrodes were electrochemically activated by applying an overpotential. Various experimental variables for the GO/GRA/beeswax composite synthesis and electrochemical system obtention were evaluated. The activation process was examined by SEM, FTIR, cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and contact angle measurement. These studies showed morphological and chemical changes in the electrode active surface. As a result, the activation stage considerably improved the electron transfer on the electrode. The manufactured device was successfully applied for galactose (Gal) determination. This method presented a linear relation in the Gal concentration range from 84 to 1736 μmol L−1, with a LOD of 0.1 μmol L−1. The variation within and between-assay coefficients were 5.3% and 6.8%, respectively. The strategy here exposed for paper-based electrochemical sensors design is an unprecedented alternative system and represents a promising tool for mass production of economic analytical devices.