Work

Wearable paper-based potentiometric sensor for real-time detection of chloride ions in sweat

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Herein, we report an office-paper-based potentiometric sensor integrated with a microfluidic paper network in an apple-like configuration, designed for continuous monitoring of chloride ions in sweat within a wearable platform. The paper-based device combines a chloride-selective membrane with a solid-contact, office paper-screen-printed transducer, and a capillary-driven paper-based microfluidic architecture, ensuring controlled sample delivery, minimising evaporation-induced drift, and eliminating memory effects, as confirmed by hysteresis studies. This work highlights the effectiveness of paper as a smart material for both sensing and sweat management in wearable electrochemical devices, achieving a sensitivity of 56 mV/log aCl⁻, a linear range of 1–200 mmol L⁻¹, and a detection limit of 74 µmol L⁻¹. Compared with the reference titration method, bias values ranged from −14% to +4%. These results pave the way for low-cost, disposable, environmentally friendly, and memory-free evaluation of electrolyte balance during physical activity, as well as for non-invasive diagnostics and monitoring highly effective modulator therapy in cystic fibrosis.

Source: Electrochimica Acta

DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2026.148692

Authors: Luca Fiore, Giorgia Leotta, Matteo di Carmine, Arianna Antinucci, Florigio Lista, Fabiana Arduini

Institutions: University of Rome Tor Vergata, Ministry of Defence

Language: English

Topic: Analytical Chemistry and Sensors

Subfield: Bioengineering

Field: Chemical Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,790

Funders: Ministero della Difesa, Ministero dell'Istruzione e del Merito