Laser-engineered heavy hydrocarbons: Old materials with new opportunities

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Chemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Polycyclic heavy hydrocarbons (HHs) possess complex chemistry with potential for diverse applications.
• Tuning HH properties is crucial for targeted electronic uses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the essential role of initial HH molecular constituents in tailoring materials for specific electronic applications.
• To achieve full control over the H:C ratio, sp² concentration, and graphitic stacking order.

Main Methods:

• Selection of feedstock chemistry, including H:C and aromatic content.
• Controlled laser treatment with variable power, speed, and focus.

Main Results:

• Achieved precise control over H:C ratio, sp² concentration, and graphitic stacking order.
• Demonstrated a wide distribution of carbon material crystallinity, from amorphous to highly graphitic.
• Obtained a broad electrical conductivity range up to 10³ S/m.

Conclusions:

• Optimal selection of HHs and laser treatment parameters enables fine-tuning of material properties.
• This approach offers a pathway to engineer carbon materials for targeted electronic applications.