Miniaturized 3D-Printed Cell Enables Water/Ethanol Quantification Using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy

Abstract

A miniaturized and low-cost electrochemical 3D-printed system for rapid and accurate quantification of ethanol content in ethanol fuel using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was developed. The monolithic design of the system incorporates insulating thermoplastic electrode separators, with only the cover being mobile, allowing for easy assembly and handling. The portable device, measuring approximately 26 × 24 mm, has a maximum capacity of 1 mL, making it suitable for lab-on-a-chip and portable analysis. By utilizing the dielectric constant of ethanol and ethanol fuel mixtures with water, the miniaturized EIS cell quantifies ethanol content effectively. To validate its performance, we compared measurements from four gas stations with a digital densimeter, and the values obtained from the proposed system matched perfectly. Our miniaturized and low-cost electrochemical 3D-printed device can be printed and assembled in two hours, offering a cost-effective solution for fast and precise ethanol quantification. Its versatility, affordability, and compatibility with lab-on-a-chip platforms make it easily applicable, including for fuel quality control and on-site analysis in remote locations.