Human Sweat Analysis Using a Portable Device Based on a Screen‐printed Electrolyte Sensor

Abstract

Analysis of ammonium in human sweat during physical strain using a portable sensor device and enzymatic measurements are compared. The portable device is based on a screen‐printed electrolyte sensor connected with an evaluation board for data acquisition and transfer. During performance tests with artificial sweat, the sensor shows a low detection limit of 0.3 mM. Thus, the typical concentration range of ammonium in sweat lies within the working range of the sensor. We also demonstrate the necessity of the comparison measurement for verification of the correct performance of screen‐printed sensors and show how other components of human sweat influence the measured potential. Regarding the change in ammonium concentration during different levels of work out intensity, we point out a different behavior of what is expected physiologically. With this the importance of consideration of several parameters during sweating, like the sweat rate and other ingredients in human sweat, was demonstrated for correct determination of the ammonium concentration.

Screen-Printed Sensor for Low-Cost Chloride Analysis in Sweat for Rapid Diagnosis and Monitoring of Cystic Fibrosis

“…Further, as the chloride sensor could be inexpensively manufactured, thanks to screen-printing technology, it can be used as a disposable sensor. In combination with the already published evaluation board for data acquisition and transfer [ 18 ], it can be used as a small handheld device. Additionally, due to its flexible design and small dimensions, it is also possible to attach the sensor directly onto the skin.…”

“…To achieve a constant potential of the reference electrode, a membrane consisting of polyvinyl butyral, methanol, and sodium chloride was used. The procedure was already described in previous studies [ 18 , 19 ].…”

A wearable fluidic collection patch and ion chromatography method for sweat electrolyte monitoring during exercise

“…Although literature shows contradictory results for NH4 + measurements as well, some researchers state that NH4 + levels are related to lactate levels in blood, which makes this analyte potentially interesting for tracking muscle fatigue. [16][17][18][19]…”

Validating sweat ammonia as physiological parameter for wearable devices in sports science

“…The research area of printed electrochemical sensors is continuously growing and, based on their simplicity in operation, low cost and compact size, such sensors are suitable for healthcare or fitness applications. Recently, it has been shown, that it is possible to measure ammonium concentrations in human sweat with a screen-printed ion-selective sensor [10]. This gives rise to a new approach of using sweat ammonium concentrations as non-invasively measured parameter for the estimation of physical ability.…”