Applications and Optimization of Laser Reduced Graphene Oxide Aerosol Sensors

Two dimensional graphene based materials make for natural sensors because the sp2 bonded carbon atom on the surface is exposed to the environment, which allows it to sense changes in its surroundings. The combination of graphene oxide (GO) dielectric layer and highly conductive laser reduced Graphene oxide (LrGO) forms ultra thin, lightweight, and flexible capacitive sensors, which is sensitive to multiple signals. Previous reports about potential sensing applications of LrGO include gas, thermal, biological and more. However, the range of potential sensing applications, and selectivity of as-fabricated LrGO based capacitive sensors is yet to be fully realized. This study aims to promote the understanding and selectivity of LrGO based electrochemical capacitive sensors to various VOCs, water molecules, gas molecules, and thermal signals. Laser-reduced graphene oxide capacitive sensors were fabricated and tested using impedance and cyclic voltammetry. Human breaths, dry air, and other stimuli were used for sensing signal collections. Laser reduction patterns were analyzed to determine overreduction points and resistivity. Using these pattern data, further sensor template optimization could be performed. The impact of laser reduction optimization to sensing behavior of sensors will be discussed. The results demonstrate the potential application LrGO in analysis.