Electrochemical detection in a paper-based separation device.

Prototypes of microfluidic paper-based separation devices with amperometric detection were developed and evaluated. Photolithography was used to make a gold electrochemical microcell on polyester and that microcell was coupled to a strip of paper where a chromatographic separation occurs. The device performance was demonstrated with the separation and quantification of uric and ascorbic acid in mixtures. The method provides an analytical alternative for the determination of compounds where low cost and simplicity are essential.