Strip bioelectrochemical cell for potentiometric measurements fabricated by screen-printing

Miniaturized, planar bioelectrochemical cell dedicated for potentiometric detection of urea manufactured in integrated strip format has been developed. The enzyme electrode and the reference electrode, both based on ruthenium dioxide were fabricated only by means of screen-printing. The application of the thick-film technology results in highly reproducible and cost-effective manufacturing procedure, easily adapted to large-scale production. The developed system of planar electrodes can be applied as a disposable device for drop-on measurements as well as a detector for a multiple use in flow injection analysis. The biosensor is useful for determination of urea in millimolar range of concentrations. The developed strip biosensor is also useful as a disposable device for potentiometric detection of heavy metal ions, which are able to inhibit urease. The utility of the developed devices for determination of urea in urine and serum samples is demonstrated.