Performance Analysis for Steady Flow Generation and Improved Readout Signal in Amperometric Biosensors

The use of peristaltic pumps as fluidic distribution microsystems in electrochemical biosensor devices operating with amperometric transducers can result in periodic spikes affecting the output signal. Mechanical components rotating inside the pumps are the main cause of this kind of disturbing noise. A novel fluidic setup based on simple fluid mechanics laws has been realized with no moving components when pump is on. It yields a fluctuation-free outcome signal that we compare with those produced by commercial peristaltic pumps. Evidence of the readout amperometric enhanced signal is shown thus confirming the successful implementation of more reliable biosensors and electrochemical signal transduction devices. Such stable and oscillation free amperometric signals are very desirable in view of biosensors integration in environmental monitoring platforms equipped with advanced communication technologies. An example is reported for their use in data mining systems equipped with a remote control for the real-time monitoring of pollutants. The cleanliness and the strength of the signal can adversely affect the reliability of the transmission of relevant information, especially when there are early warning civil purposes referred to a potential harmful contamination (i.e., water bodies pollution).