Editors’ Choice—Review—3D Printing: An Innovative Trend in Analytical Sensing

Abstract

The rise of additive manufacturing (i.e., 3D printing) as a key technology to rapidly fabricate materials with high quality and modifiable functionality is playing a major role in many scientific disciplines. Aided by advances in printer capabilities (e.g., resolution, material compatibility, print speed, etc) and the availability of affordable low-profile printers, 3D printing is rapidly becoming a staple piece of equipment in many chemistry research laboratories. One such area that 3D printing is having a profound impact is on analytical chemistry through the ability to rapidly print and prototype diagnostic devices for use in fields ranging from the environment to human health. This review describes recent advances in the fabrication of analytical devices which incorporate 3D printed sensing elements into electrochemical or physical sensors. Here we present an overview of the key milestones which have shaped the current state-of-the-art 3D printers as well as review progress made toward the development of sensors and their translation (and incorporation) into point-of-care devices such as wearables and soft robots.