VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland has developed a method of using printing technology to produce simple tests related to health, well-being and the environment.
The centre has demonstrated the efficacy of the method by printing a haemoglobin test - manufactured paper that reveals whether a given sample contains haemoglobin.
VTT printed the paper with antibodies that react to the sample.
The test result can be read in the form of a line, for example, which either does or does not appear, depending on the sample.
It is also possible to print instructional images or text, for example, either on or alongside the test.
Printed paper test can be used to test quickly and easily for the presence of a given substance.
The test can be adapted to different purposes by exchanging the identifying antibody printed on the paper for another, for example.
The test's subject may be many different types of liquid or substances that are soluble in water.
The paper can be manufactured using normal printing equipment.
However, the delicate biomolecules require different handling and storage procedures to those followed with normal printing colours.
Novel products well-suited for mass production can be created by combining bio, paper and print technology.
The technology can be applied in rapid diagnostics in the areas of health, wellbeing and the environment, or to bring additional features to packaging or labelling.
The technology also presents new possibilities for ensuring product authenticity and impeding falsification.
The result is part of a series of projects over the period 2007-2011 aimed at developing bioactive paper.
The projects are funded primarily by Tekes, the Finnish Funding Agency for Technology and Innovation.
VTT's partners in research and development work have been the Aalto University, Abo Akademi University and the University of Lapland.
The commercial partners in funding and in the management team have been UPM-Kymmene, Tervakoski Oy, BASF, Orion Diagnostica Oy, Hansaprint , Oy Medix Biochemica Ab, Starcke Securities and Eagle Filter.
