An overview of sustainable biopolymer composites in sensor manufacturing and smart cities

Biopolymer composites are emerging as promising materials for smart sensors in the fields of civil engineering and intelligent cities. With enhanced mechanical properties, tailored sensitivity, and versatile fabrication methods, biopolymer composites provide a compelling solution for sustainable sensing technologies. The versatility of biopolymer composites with different electrical properties enables their applications in resistive, capacitive, and piezoelectric sensors, thus enhancing their potentials in healthcare, environmental monitoring, and consumer electronics. Here, we review an advancement of biopolymer composites in sensor technology, such as piezoresistive strain sensors used in structural health monitoring and a novel biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) biosensor for water monitoring. Integrating biopolymer composites into electrical biosensors has demonstrated promising results in detecting various substances, including moisture content in soil and model pollutants. Furthermore, their utilization in biopolymer-bound soil composites for building materials holds potential implications for sustainable construction practices. In summary, the incorporation of biopolymer composites in sensing applications paves the pathway towards developing smart and sustainable cities. As research continues, these materials are expected to play an increasingly significant role in sensor technology, providing eco-friendly solutions for challenges in civil engineering, environmental monitoring, and beyond. Furthermore, the potential for biopolymer composites to contribute to a more sustainable and interconnected world is considerable, making them a promising avenue for future sensor manufacturing and Internet of Things (IoT) applications.

Graphical Abstract

The advancement of sustainable biopolymer composites for sensors is comprehensively reviewed with their manufacturing and applications in smart cities.