Self-detached laser induced graphene derived from bio-oil distillation residues for multifunctional applications

Authors: YANG, SHUHONG - University Of Missouri; Elkasabi, Yaseen; YAN, QIANGU - Us Forest Service (FS); ZHENG, BUJINGDA - University Of Missouri; QIAN, HONGHUA - University Of Missouri; LIN, JIAN - University Of Missouri; WAN, CAIXIA - University Of Missouri

Submitted to: Carbon
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 4/5/2025
Publication Date: 4/7/2025
Citation: Yang, S., Elkasabi, Y.M., Yan, Q., Zheng, B., Qian, H., Lin, J., Wan, C. 2025. Self-detached laser induced graphene derived from bio-oil distillation residues for multifunctional applications . Carbon. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.carbon.2025.120301.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.carbon.2025.120301

Interpretive Summary: Utilization of agricultural residues to replace use of fossil resources is important to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and develop the bioeconomy. Low value residues such as plant stalks can be converted into a renewable replacement for crude oil using a process called pyrolysis. The oil made from pyrolysis can be refined into finished renewable versions of fuels and chemicals. The heaviest fractions of this oil have limited uses, but they can be made into carbon materials that are electrically conductive. This work focuses on the advancement of these materials, by making electrically conductive films through laser etching. The films are free-standing but also can be directly attached onto other materials.

Technical Abstract: This study presents immediately reusable laser induced graphene (LIG) precursors developed by switchgrass pyrolysis residues. The precursor film consistently produces high-quality LIG containing nanosphere structures. The LIG can automatically self-detach in ambient conditions forming a free-standing membrane, or effortlessly transfer via direct adhesion peeling from the original substrate. Moreover, upon laser scanning and LIG transfer, the newly exposed surface can be used for producing LIG again immediately. Raman analysis, surface resistance measurements and SEM analysis confirm that LIG produced at the same site maintains exceptional quality consistently. The film also processes long-term storage stability without special conditions. This discovery unveils the immense potential of biomass materials for creating reusable LIG precursors, enhancing LIG's significance in the green economy, and sustainable application development. As proof of concept, we transformed these peeled LIGs into sensors and supercapacitors. The bending sensor exhibited remarkable sensitivity, detecting minute deformations in each vibrational state through electrical resistance changes, even subjected to 250 Hz vibrations with about 0.1mm amplitude. The supercapacitors (PVA/KOH solid state electrolyte) also have ultra-high energy density of 27.3 µWh/cm2, and specific area capacitance of 248.7 mF/cm2 at the current density of 0.2 mA/cm2. These results demonstrate the tremendous potential of biomass-derived LIG in practical large-scale manufacturing for energy, environment monitoring, and wearable electronics applications.