The Need
Current biofuel cell sensors suffer from poor selectivity and accuracy due to fluctuations in ionic strength and pH at the sensing interface. These environmental changes can significantly interfere with sensor readings, limiting reliability in medical diagnostics, energy generation, and environmental monitoring. There is a critical need for a sensing interface that maintains stable conditions, enabling precise and consistent measurements across diverse applications.

The Technology
This technology, developed by OSU engineers, introduces a novel solid electrolyte material composed of a polymer matrix embedded with microparticle salts. When applied to the cathode of a biofuel cell, this dual-function material stabilizes both ionic strength and pH at the sensing interface. By neutralizing environmental fluctuations, it ensures consistent reaction conditions, dramatically improving sensor selectivity and reliability without requiring complex external controls.

Commercial Applications
• Medical diagnostics (e.g., glucose monitoring, biosensors)
• Renewable energy generation (biofuel cells)
• Environmental monitoring (water quality, pollutant detection)
• Industrial process control sensors

Benefits/Advantages
• Substantially reduces interference from ionic and pH fluctuations, improving measurement accuracy
• Adaptable composition for various sensing environments and targets
• Enables reliable, long-term sensor operation with minimal recalibration