Laser-induced graphene enabled 1D fiber electronics

Laser-induced graphene (LIG) is a newly-emergent processing strategy for assembling graphene-based structures and devices with low-cost, high-efficiency and high-customizability. However, with the limitation of positioning accuracy, the application of LIG for swift and continuous production of 1D graphene-fiber based electronics is still vacant. Considering the unique 1D geometry with prominent advantages for flexible and wearable devices, in this work, we adventurously proposed and investigated a vertically-oriented laser-sweeping strategy to continuously convert the ∼16.5 μm diameter polyimide monofilament into freestanding graphene fibers. Based on process-structure-property relationship modulated precisely by varied combinations of lasing power and pulse resolution, the LIG enabled fiber electronics (LIGFE) could simultaneously exhibit small diameter (<20 μm), high strength (56.49 MPa), electrical conductivity (306.45 S/m), gauge sensitivity (5.43), joule-heated temperature (71.3 °C), and capacitive performance (0.26 μF/cm²). Taking advantage of computer-aided design and manufacture along with the variously excellent properties, we lastly demonstrated the LIGFE as multimodal sensors for liquid sensing, airflow & respiration monitoring, ultrasonic frequency capturing, as well as functional element embedded in polymer composites for varied types of structural health monitoring from manufacturing to failure stages.