Combined Additive and Laser-Induced Processing of Functional Structures for Monitoring under Deformation

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Additive Manufacturing

Background:

• Electronic devices face electrothermal challenges.
• Developing efficient conductive materials is crucial for device performance.
• Laser-induced graphene (LIG) offers a promising route for advanced electronics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a non-chemical, laser-induced writing process for fabricating conductive graphene traces.
• To investigate the influence of laser parameters on LIG structure and properties.
• To demonstrate LIG's potential in overcoming electrothermal issues in electronic devices.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a high-precision laser nScrypt printer with varied power, speed, and printing parameters.
• Employed Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy for material characterization.
• Conducted four-point probe measurements to assess electrical properties and gauge factor.

Main Results:

• Optimized laser conditions significantly improved LIG structure and properties.
• Higher crystalline size (159 nm) was observed at 3.2 W compared to 4 W (29 nm) due to controlled oxidation.
• Resistivity was three orders of magnitude higher at 3.8 W laser power, indicating tunable electrical characteristics.
• Gauge factor (GF) ranged from 17 at 0.5% strain to 141.36 at 5% strain, showing potential for strain sensing.

Conclusions:

• The laser-induced writing process is a viable method for producing high-quality conductive graphene traces.
• Adjusting laser conditions and printing parameters allows for precise control over LIG morphology and electrical performance.
• This approach offers a pathway to mitigate electrothermal issues and develop novel electronic and sensing applications.