Laser-Induced Graphene on Biocompatible PDMS/PEG Composites for Limb Motion Sensing

Anđela Gavran ¹, Marija V Pergal ¹, Teodora Vićentić ¹

⁰Center for Microelectronic Technologies, Institute of Chemistry, Technology and Metallurgy-National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia.

Sensors (basel, Switzerland) +

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September 13, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Researchers developed a new method for creating laser-induced graphene (LIG) on flexible, biocompatible PDMS/PEG composites for wearable sensors. This advancement overcomes challenges in precursor materials, enabling enhanced flexibility and real-time motion monitoring.

Area Of Science

Materials Science
Nanotechnology
Biomedical Engineering

Background

Laser-induced graphene (LIG) is crucial for wearable electronics due to its unique properties.
A key challenge is the lack of stretchable, biocompatible polymers for LIG fabrication.
Existing methods struggle with precursor material limitations for advanced wearable sensors.

Purpose Of The Study

To develop a novel method for fabricating LIG on biocompatible PDMS/PEG composites.
To optimize laser parameters for high-quality graphene synthesis on flexible substrates.
To create and test wearable sensors using the new LIG-based materials.

Main Methods

Fabrication of LIG directly on cross-linked PDMS/PEG composites with varying PEG content (10-40 wt.%).
Systematic optimization of laser parameters for efficient graphenization.
Characterization using tensile testing, XPS, SEM, and Raman spectroscopy.
Device fabrication via laser induction on polyimide followed by transfer to PDMS/PEG to address contact adhesion issues.

Main Results

Successful synthesis of high-quality few-layer graphene on PDMS/PEG substrates.
PDMS/40 wt.% PEG composites exhibited enhanced flexibility (237% elongation at break, 0.25 MPa Young's modulus).
Demonstrated real-time limb motion monitoring with a stable, repeatable piezoresistive response.
Overcame electrical contact adhesion challenges through a polyimide transfer method.

Conclusions

First-time fabrication of LIG on biocompatible PDMS/PEG composites for wearable sensors.
The developed method offers a promising route for creating flexible, high-performance sensors.
This research paves the way for advanced applications in medical and sports technologies.

Keywords:

laser-induced graphene physicochemical properties poly(dimethylsiloxane) poly(ethylene glycol) sensors