Electrospinning for the manufacture of biosensor components: A mini-review

Abstract

One of the key modern advancements of the biomaterial's world has been the recent progress with fibre manufacturing techniques which have allowed for novel approaches to biosensor fabrication. Electrospinning is capable of producing ultrafine and highly tailored fibres that can be made from a wide variety of natural and synthetic materials to be exploited for use as medical sensors. In recent years, electrospinning has been more widely researched and great strides have been made in its ability to produce fibres with more desirable properties. In this mini-review, the process of electrospinning is overviewed with an emphasis on its properties in producing biosensor components. It is seen how the advancements of nanotechnology allows for easier incorporation of bioreceptors to a larger range of membranes that are capable of higher sensitivity and broader applications. Furthermore, newer manufacturing techniques that are also capable of producing ultra-thin fibres are elaborated and the future of biosensor production in taking advantage of micro- and nano-scaled components are discussed.