Abstract:
Laser-induced graphene (LIG) possesses desirable properties for numerous applications.
However, LIG formation on biocompatible substrates is needed to further augment the
integration of LIG-based technologies into nanobiotechnology. Here, LIG formation on crosslinked
sodium alginate is reported. The LIG is systematically investigated, providing a
comprehensive understanding of the physicochemical characteristics of the material. Raman
spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive x-ray analysis, x-ray
diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and x-ray
photoelectron spectroscopy techniques confirm the successful generation of oxidized graphene
on the surface of cross-linked sodium alginate. The influence of laser parameters and the amount
of crosslinker incorporated into the alginate substrate is explored, revealing that lower laser
speed, higher resolution, and increased CaCl2 content leads to LIG with lower electrical
resistance. These findings could have significant implications for the fabrication of LIG on
alginate with tailored conductive properties, but they could also play a guiding role for LIG
formation on other biocompatible substrates.