Single-Step Integration of Poly(3-Octylthiophene) and Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes for Highly Reproducible...

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Materials Science
• Sensor Technology

Background:

• Calibration of ion-selective electrodes (ISEs) is a major hurdle for disposable sensor development.
• Existing methods are time-consuming and limit the creation of single-use and wearable sensors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of ion-selective membrane solvents on ISE reproducibility.
• To develop a novel paper-based ISE (PBISE) with enhanced sensor performance and reproducibility.

Main Methods:

• Compared tetrahydrofuran (THF) and cyclohexanone as solvents for ion-selective membranes.
• Integrated poly(3-octylthiophene) (POT) and single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) into PBISE substrates in a single step.
• Developed PBISEs for potassium and sodium ion detection.

Main Results:

• Identified an optimal membrane solvent for improved ISE reproducibility.
• Achieved high potential reproducibility in PBISEs as low as ±1.0 mV (n = 3).
• Demonstrated outstanding sensor performance for potassium and sodium ions.

Conclusions:

• The choice of membrane solvent significantly impacts ISE reproducibility.
• Single-step integration of POT and SWCNTs offers a viable route to reproducible PBISEs.
• Developed PBISEs show great promise for reliable and disposable ion sensing applications.