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Industrial Research And Consultancy Centre
Patent
An In-situ Electrochemical Sensor
Abstract

Electrochemical sensors are widely known sensing devices. The electrochemical sensors are used in application areas including health care, agriculture, and water quality monitoring. Screen printed paper based/ceramic electrodes are 2D and can’t be used for in-situ applications. The electrochemical sensors generally comprise multiple electrodes. 

This invention provides a 3-D electrochemical sensor with 3-dimensional Working, Counter and reference electrodes in a predefined 3-D structure for in-situ soil moisture sensing.

Figure 1. (a) Design of the device, (b) Actual electrodes printed on the paper substrate

Problem Statement

In the realm of electrochemical sensors, existing technologies often face limitations in effectively sensing various substances in different environments. Traditional sensors, like those made from screen-printed materials, are mostly two-dimensional and struggle with applications requiring in-situ measurements, such as soil analysis or real-time environmental monitoring. These sensors are typically unable to provide accurate and reliable data in dynamic settings due to their flat structure and material constraints. The present invention addresses these challenges by introducing a novel electrochemical sensor with three-dimensional electrodes. This innovation allows for enhanced sensing capabilities in complex environments like soil, where traditional sensors fall short. By incorporating 3D structures and specialized coatings, this sensor aims to improve accuracy and reliability in measuring a wide range of substances, thereby offering a robust solution for practical and real-world sensing applications.

Uniqueness of the Solution
  • Three-Dimensional Structure: Unlike conventional two-dimensional electrodes, this sensor utilizes 3D working, counter, and reference electrodes, enhancing surface area and sensitivity. 
  • Specialized Coatings: Each electrode is coated with tailored inks like carbon or silver/silver chloride, optimizing electrochemical performance for specific analytes.
  • Disposable Design: Featuring disposable electrodes, this sensor offers cost-effective and hygienic solutions for applications in healthcare and environmental monitoring.
Prototype Details

An early prototype has been developed.

Current Status of Technology

Comprehensive lab testing and validation has been done.

Technology readiness level

8

Societal Impact

The electrochemical sensor may be used in application areas including health care, agriculture, and water quality monitoring. The electrochemical sensor with the disposable 3D electrodes made of the preselected material is easy to use and economic.

Applications or Domain
  • Healthcare: Used for point-of-care diagnostics, monitoring biomarkers, and detecting diseases through electrochemical analysis. 
  • Environmental Monitoring: Enables real-time detection of pollutants and monitoring soil health in agriculture using precise electrochemical measurements.

Geography of IP

Type of IP

Application Number

201921001224

Filing Date
Grant Number

456686

Grant Date
Assignee(s)
Indian Institute of Technology Bombay
**This IP is owned by IIT Bombay**