Laboratory measurement technology - Chemo- and biosensor technology

A biosensor is a sensor that uses a biological component to recognise biological molecules or chemical substances. The active biological component can be an enzyme, DNA or even whole cells that are fixed on a transducer, e.g. a microchip.

Biosensors can, for example, measure the sugar content in the blood or the alcohol concentration in drinks. They can be used to analyse DNA or to research biochemical processes in living cells.

The applications of chemo/biosensors include

• Increasing the quality of life (e.g. medicine - patient monitoring, surgical area, self-monitoring for diabetes)
• Improved occupational safety (e.g. toxic gases)
• Reduced environmental pollution (waste water, drinking water control,_{CO2 emissions})
• Increased productivity in enclosure and process technology (e.g. controlled, defined chemical/biological reactions)
• Quality assurance (e.g. food control, freshness/rotting)

The chemo/biosensors should preferably be integrated into complete microsystems; examples are the µTAS (micro total analysis system) or the "lab on chip". In addition to the actual sensors, there are also actuators (control elements such as pumps, nozzles, valves) and the electronics "on board" on the chip. This requires special micro-techniques for production.

One example of a complete microsystem is the "smart pill". A sensor measures the blood sugar, the integrated electronics of the microsystem calculates the insulin requirement and the micropump as actuator delivers the exact amount.