Fabrication of a Bioimpedance Sensor via Inkjet Printing and Selective Metallization

Abstract

The significant incidence of cancer on public health in the modern industrialized world is pushing the research on novel therapeutic techniques and diagnosis tools. The latter, in particular, are of vital importance, since in many cases a prompt cancer diagnosis can significantly decrease patient’s mortality. Bioimpedance tissue analysis, in particular, is gaining attention as a promising methodology to identify tumor. Manufacturing technologies for bioimpedance probes are however still not completely adapt for cost effective mass production. In this context, the present work aims at producing a costless bioimpedance sensor by employing inkjet printing and electrolytic metal deposition. The probe manufactured in this way is successfully employed for bioimpedance testing of three animal tissues, demonstrating ability to successfully distinguish between them.