3D-printed amperometric sensor for the detection of ethanol in saliva

Abstract

In this work, we report a non-enzymatic and metal-free ethanol sensor based on 3D PLA-graphene electrodes. We evaluated the optimal activation treatment for PLA-graphene to achieve a sensor for monitoring ethanol levels in saliva samples, following the legal limits for drivers in various countries. The analytical performance of the sensor was determined through amperometric measurements, demonstrating a linear detection ranging supporting electrolyte (0.990–19.3 mmol L⁻¹) and artificial saliva sample (0.990–17.4 mmol L⁻¹), with respective limits of detection of 0.135 and 0.239 mmol L⁻¹. The 3D-printed sensor exhibited excellent repeatability and reproducibility. This method was effectively employed for ethanol detection, highlighting its potential as an alternative approach for assessing ethanol levels in drivers while considering diverse legal regulations across different countries.