Reprint of: Use of a mobile phone for potentiostatic control with low cost paper-based microfluidic sensors

• The ability to generate ECL emission using the audio output of a mobile phone is demonstrated.
• Electrochemical control can be achieved by controlling the amplitude and waveform of the sound.
• A mobile phone “app” synchronises the electrochemical stimulation with detection via the camera.
• In combination with paper-based microfluidic sensors, extremely low cost analysis is possible.
• Detection of proline at levels suitable for diagnosis of hyperprolinemia is demonstrated.

By exploiting its ability to play sounds, a mobile phone with suitable software installed can serve the basic functions of a potentiostat in controlling an applied potential to oxidise ECL-active molecules, while the resultant photonic signal is monitored using the camera in video mode. In combination with paper microfluidic sensors this opens significant new possibilities for low-cost, instrument-free sensing.

Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide