Recyclable Diagnostic Device for Efficient Analyte Detection
Applicant: Actifar [BE]
Inventors: Béatrice Maerevoet [BE], Olivier Naessens [BE]
Patent Number: EP4517325
Publication Date: March 5, 2025
This invention relates to a better recyclable diagnostic device designed to detect and identify a target analyte from a liquid sample. Specifically, it focuses on a pregnancy test that detects the hCG hormone.
The Problem
Many diagnostic devices are available, often consisting of a plastic shell containing a synthetic test strip, typically made of nitrocellulose. To reduce plastic waste, more eco-friendly devices have been developed using paper or cardboard shells with plastic test strips. However, these devices still generate non-recyclable waste due to the combination of plastic and paper/cardboard materials, which require different recycling processes.
Pregnancy tests, for example, use biochemical immunoassays to detect elevated levels of the hCG hormone in body fluids like urine. These tests rely on anti-hCG antibodies and antigens that bind to these antibodies. Despite some eco-friendly designs, current tests still produce waste that is difficult to recycle.
The Solution
There is a growing demand for eco-friendly diagnostic devices that are easy to recycle. The invention addresses this need by providing a diagnostic device that includes:
- A support with an upper and lower face.
- At least one test strip inside the support, containing a test zone and reagents to detect the target analyte.
- An opening on the upper face for sample deposition, which is in fluid communication with the test zone.
- A reading window to observe the test results.
- A rupture zone that allows users to access and separate the test strip from the support.
This design enables users to easily separate the plastic test strip from the paper or cardboard support, facilitating proper recycling and waste management. This eco-friendly approach meets consumer expectations and regulatory requirements by reducing the ecological footprint.
Advantages
The device can detect and identify various analytes, including toxins, organic compounds, proteins, peptides, microorganisms, bacteria, viruses, amino acids, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, hormones, steroids, vitamins, drugs, pollutants, pesticides, antigens, haptens, and antibodies.
The environmentally friendly design uses biodegradable materials for the support, reducing plastic waste. The rupture zone allows easy separation of components for recycling, making the device more sustainable.
Your Centexbel Patent-Cell Team
Sander De Vrieze
