Avaliação do desempenho de um sistema automático de análise construído empregando as facilidades da impressão 3D

Abstract

Developing regions often face challenges in accessing advanced analytical technologies due to financial and infrastructural limitations. However, recent advances in the accessibility and adaptability of 3D printing technologies have significantly contributed to overcoming these barriers. In this context, this work presents an evaluation of the performance of an automated liquid handling system named NuPE-Robot, characterized by its versatility, compactness, robustness, and ease of operation. The system was built using low-cost components, including standardized parts widely used in 3D printers and custom components produced by additive manufacturing. Its operation is controlled by open-source software developed in Python, enabling the automated execution of analytical protocols without the need for operator intervention. Once activated, the system is capable of automatically performing standard solution preparation, constructing calibration curves, and analyzing samples using 3D-printed detection platforms. Batch Injection Analysis (BIA) cells coupled with different detection strategies were employed, including multispectral sensor-based spectrophotometry, amperometry, and potentiometry. In addition, alternative colorimetric detection approaches using microvolumes of solution directly in hanging drops and micropipette tips were investigated, aiming to reduce reagent consumption and increase operational flexibility. To demonstrate the broad applicability of the developed platform, automatic calibration and determination procedures were implemented for six analytes: Fe(III), phosphate, nitrite, and glucose by colorimetric detection; paracetamol by amperometric detection; and chloride by potentiometric detection. In all cases, calibration curves with adequate linearity, precision, and accuracy were obtained, demonstrating the system’s ability to perform different analytical methodologies using a single integrated platform. The necessary adaptations were limited to the detection modules and experimental configurations specific to each method, highlighting the high modularity of the proposed instrumentation. The results obtained demonstrate that the NuPE-Robot is a viable alternative for automating chemical analyses in resource-limited laboratories, combining low cost, ease of reproducibility, and broad analytical versatility. Thus, the platform shows strong potential to democratize access to laboratory automation, contributing to the dissemination of modern analytical technologies in teaching, research, and quality control institutions, especially in developing regions.