Enhanced Laser-Induced Graphene Microfluidic Integrated Sensors (LIGMIS) for On-Site Biomedical and Environmental Monitoring

Abstract

The convergence of microfluidic and electrochemical biosensor technologies offers significant potential for rapid, in-field diagnostics in biomedical and environmental applications. Traditional systems face challenges in cost, scalability, and operational complexity, especially in remote settings. Addressing these issues, laser-induced graphene microfluidic integrated sensors (LIGMIS) are presented as an innovative platform that integrates microfluidics and electrochemical sensors both comprised of laser-induced graphene. This study advances the LIGMIS concept by resolving issues of uneven fluid transport, increased hydrophobicity during storage, and sensor biofunctionalization challenges. Key innovations include Y-shaped reservoirs for consistent fluid flow, hydrophilic polyethyleneimine coatings to maintain wettability, and separable microfluidic and electrochemical components enabling isolated electrode nanoparticle metallization and biofunctionalization. Multiplexed electrochemical detection of the neonicotinoid imidacloprid and nitrate ions in environmental water samples yields detection limits of 707 nm and 10−5.4 m with wide sensing ranges of 5–100 µm and 10−5–10−1 m, respectively. Similarly, uric acid and calcium ions are detected in saliva, demonstrating detection limits of 217 nm and 10−5.3 m with sensing ranges of 10–50 µm, and 10−5–10−2.5 m, respectively. Overall, this biosensing demonstrates the capability of the LIGMIS platform for multiplexed detection in biologically complex solutions, with applications in environmental water quality monitoring and oral cancer screening.