Functionalized graphenes for ink technologies

Introduction

GRADERINK addresses the pressing need for the development of novel inks that can be utilized for inkjet printing of stable, selective, sensitive, and eco-friendly electrodes. The project aims to deliver the upscaling of an industrially relevant novel manufacturing process for graphene-derivative based ink, enabling significant progress in the printing technologies for a versatile electrochemical biosensing platform. Such a platform can be utilized for a wide range of medicinally, environmentally, and food/water-safety related analytes, such as:

• Microbes
• Antibiotics
• Pesticides
• Disease markers

Importance of Monitoring

The maintenance of a healthy society necessitates not only monitoring human body status but also screening food, drinking water, air, and the environment. Such monitoring requires immediate, on-site, and easy-to-read sensing technologies.

Electrochemical Biosensors

Electrochemical biosensors represent an ideal sensing platform because they transduce a specific biochemical event to an electrical signal, which can be readily recorded and processed. The key component of electrochemical biosensors is the electrode, which is used as a solid support for the immobilization of biomolecules and electron movement.

Advantages of Graphene-Based Materials

Graphene-based materials are ideally suitable for the construction of electrochemical biosensor electrodes because they offer:

1. High surface area
2. Unique electrochemical properties
3. High biocompatibility

Challenges with Graphene

However, graphene itself enables only limited applications, and the patterning of graphene-based electrodes remains an unsolved challenge. Digital printing technologies represent a novel strategy for the patterning of electrodes. Their use, however, requires stable, robust, and sustainable inks which are not yet commercially available.

Project Goals

GRADERINK’s goal will be achieved through the implementation of cost-effective materials and processes along with taking the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of the developed technology from 2 to 4, thus shaping a significant business opportunity.