Eco-Innovative Papers Integrating Nanostructured Graphenic Films. Toward Sustainable Multifunctional Integrated...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Laser-induced conductive nanofilm (LIF) electronics are versatile but paper-based sensors often lack performance.
• Existing paper sensors rely on fragile graphitization methods, limiting real-world applications.
• Effective graphene LIF-based paper devices remain an open challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize novel nanostructured paper-based sensors using laser-induced reduced graphene oxide (rGO).
• To investigate the integration of rGO onto diverse eco-innovative cellulosic substrates.
• To evaluate the performance of these paper-rGO sensors in various analytical applications.

Main Methods:

• Integration of laser-induced rGO onto various cellulosic substrates (recycled, waste-derived, alternative fibers).
• Fabrication of paper sensors using stencil printing and pressure-assisted rGO integration.
• Comprehensive analysis of morphological, structural, chemical, electrical, and electrochemical properties.

Main Results:

• Successful fabrication of paper-rGO sensors with unique graphene film formation influenced by substrate properties.
• Electrochemical performance is linked to the paper's ability to maintain rGO's exfoliated sp² carbon domains.
• Demonstrated multifunctional sensing capabilities with reproducible data (RSD ≤ 7%), low detection limits, and high recoveries (91-108%) in agri-food, biological, and pharmaceutical samples.

Conclusions:

• The cellulosic substrate significantly impacts the electrosensing ability of paper-rGO sensors.
• Different paper types yield optimal performance for specific analytical applications.
• These paper-rGO sensors show high performance and exploitability for diverse real-world sensing needs.