Electrochemical activation for sensing of three-dimensional-printed poly(lactic acid) using low-pressure plasma

Integrated electrochemical sensors in which plasma-treated poly(lactic acid) (PLA) single material acts as both selective coating layer and electrochemical transductor (electrode) are prepared. Thus, three-dimensional-printed PLA specimens are transformed into electroresponsive material by applying a low-pressure gas plasma treatment with three different gases: N-2, O-2, and air (79% N-2 + 21% O-2). Although all treated samples are able to electrochemically detect dopamine, the one derived from the treatment of low-pressure O-2 plasma exhibits the best performance as a sensor. Finally, cell adhesion assays demonstrate that the cell viability is higher for plasma-treated PLA modified than for pristine PLA, making the former a promising, versatile, and powerful electroresponsive platform for diverse applications in biomedicine.

Automated summary

Integrated electrochemical sensors with plasma-treated PLA as a selective coating layer and electrochemical transductor have been prepared. By applying low-pressure gas plasma treatment, 3D-printed PLA specimens are transformed into electroresponsive material. The one derived from low-pressure O-2 plasma treatment shows the best sensor performance. Cell adhesion assays demonstrate higher cell viability for plasma-treated PLA modified samples.