Recent Implementations of Hydrogel-Based Microbial Electrochemical Technologies (METs) in Sensing Applications

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Hydrogel materials offer biocompatibility and low toxicity, making them suitable for microbial electrochemical technology (MET) and sensor development.
• The demand for advanced sensors across various sectors necessitates a comprehensive understanding of hydrogel-based METs and sensors.
• A systematic review on hydrogel-based METs in sensor applications, particularly microbial fuel cells (MFCs) and microbial electrolysis cells (MECs), is lacking.

Approach:

• This review systematically examines current research on hydrogel incorporation in METs and sensors.
• It focuses on the application of hydrogels in microbial fuel cells (MFCs) and microbial electrolysis cells (MECs).
• The review analyzes manufacturing processes, costs, operational performance, accuracy, and stability of hydrogel materials.

Key Points:

• Hydrogels are versatile in METs and sensors due to their properties.
• Analysis covers material performance metrics like cost, efficiency, accuracy, and stability.
• Challenges and future research avenues for hydrogel-based electrochemical biosensors are discussed.

Conclusions:

• This review provides a comprehensive overview of hydrogel utilization in METs and sensor technologies.
• It highlights the potential of hydrogel-based METs for developing advanced electrochemical biosensors.
• Understanding these materials is crucial for advancing sensor technology and MET applications.