Potential of printed electrodes for electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) : toward membrane fouling detection

Abstract

Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), one of the techniques for electrochemical analysis, has been used for a wide range of applications especially chemical- and bio-sensing. Besides, EIS is one of the few techniques that has been proven useful for membrane fouling detection. Electrodes are some of the most essential components for analytes detection applications with EIS. With the advances in printing technology, the fabrication of advanced printed electrode systems with miniature designs and improved sensitivity for electrochemical sensing is made possible. This review addresses recent advances in printed electrodes for electrochemical impedance spectroscopy with the emphasis placed on discussing the use of printed electrodes for membrane fouling detection. Common electrode designs and materials for electrochemical impedance spectroscopy are discussed, along with practical examples of these printed electrodes. The commonly used printing techniques for the fabrication of printed electrodes are also deliberated. The successful realization of printed electrodes for EIS requires careful design of electrodes, proper selection of electrode materials, as well as optimization of the printing process. It is expected that printed electrodes will be widely accepted for EIS sensing applications and will facilitate the creation of low-cost high-performance sensing devices.