Laser-Induced Graphene for Pressure and Strain Sensors: Fabrication, Performance Optimization, and Applications

Laser-induced graphene (LIG)-based pressure and strain sensors have emerged as key research topics in the field of flexible sensors, owing to LIG's exceptional electrical conductivity and mechanical properties since its introduction as a multifunctional material in 2014. This study reviews recent advances in these sensors. It first analyzes the sensing mechanisms of various types of pressure and strain sensors and discusses their performance metrics. At the level of fabrication processes, it provides an in-depth examination of precursor material selection, optimization strategies for laser processing parameters, and considerations related to LIG transfer. The discussion then highlights three sensor optimization strategies. Furthermore, the study outlines the diverse applications of LIG-based pressure and strain sensors in areas such as health monitoring, medical assistance, human-machine interfaces, robotic perception, and structural evaluation. Finally, it summarizes the current challenges and future prospects in LIG research.