Silk-based conformal, adhesive, edible food sensors

Adv Mater. 2012 Feb 21;24(8):1067-72. doi: 10.1002/adma.201103814. Epub 2012 Jan 20.

Abstract

An array of passive metamaterial antennas fabricated on all protein-based silk substrates were conformally transferred and adhered to the surface of an apple. This process allows the opportunity for intimate contact of micro- and nanostructures that can probe, and accordingly monitor changes in, their surrounding environment. This provides in situ monitoring of food quality. It is to be noted that this type of sensor consists of all edible and biodegradable components, holding utility and potential relevance for healthcare and food/consumer products and markets.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adhesives / chemistry*
  • Biosensing Techniques / instrumentation*
  • Eating*
  • Electromagnetic Phenomena
  • Food Analysis / instrumentation*
  • Food Safety
  • Humans
  • Silk / chemistry*
  • Wireless Technology

Substances

  • Adhesives
  • Silk