Investigation of a self-powered biosensor using a brush-based triboelectric nanogenerator and an enzymatic reaction

In recent years, wearable devices have undergone remarkable developments. These can easily help us obtain useful information such as that related to our health. However, most devices require a power supply. This limits the utilization of portability and facilities. This can lead to dangerous situations for people who require immediate measurement of their condition. Therefore, novel wearable devices that do not need a power supply or generate power themselves are desirable. Therefore, triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG) have attracted considerable attention as renewable energy sources. In this study, we focused on using the TENG technique in wearable devices, particularly biosensors. An enzyme-modified TENG biosensor for glucose detection was constructed and evaluated. As a characteristic of our glucose biosensor, a fiber brush made nylon and fluorinated ethylene-propylene copolymer fibers was used to drive the TENG. Using chemical fibers, glucose can be detected from various contact directions. Glucose was detected sensitively by modifying the TENG with glucose oxidase (GOx) and polyaniline (PANI) that is an emeraldine base. The resulting biosensor showed better substrate specificity for glucose than for lactic acid. Overall, the proposed enzyme-modified B-TENG can be utilized as a wearable biosensor in the near future.