A paper-based nanomodified electrochemical biosensor for ethanol detection in beers

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Biosensor Technology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Traditional methods for ethanol detection can be costly and time-consuming.
• Developing low-cost, disposable biosensors is crucial for widespread food quality control.
• Paper is an underutilized, sustainable substrate for electrochemical sensor fabrication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the first paper-based screen-printed biosensor for ethanol detection in beer.
• To evaluate the performance of paper as a substrate for screen-printed electrodes (SPEs).
• To develop an affordable and sustainable tool for food quality control.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a paper-based screen-printed electrode (SPE) using common office paper.
• Characterization of paper SPEs using cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy.
• Development of a nanocomposite electrocatalyst (Carbon Black/Prussian Blue nanoparticles) for ethanol detection.
• Optimization of analytical parameters including pH, enzyme concentration, and working potential.

Main Results:

• Paper SPEs exhibited comparable properties to polyester-based SPEs, demonstrating suitability for sensor applications.
• The developed biosensor achieved sensitive detection of ethanol up to 10 mM (0.058% vol) with a detection limit of 0.52 mM (0.003% vol).
• The biosensor accurately quantified ethanol in four different beer types (Pilsner, Weiss, Lager, alcohol-free).

Conclusions:

• Paper is a viable, cost-effective, and sustainable substrate for fabricating electrochemical biosensors.
• The developed paper-based biosensor offers a reliable and affordable method for ethanol analysis in beer.
• This approach provides a sustainable tool for food quality control and the development of diverse electrochemical sensors.