Laser-induced graphene electrodes scribed onto a composite membrane for dopamine sensing

An innovative approach was employed to develop composite membranes conducive to the production of advanced electrodes for electrochemical applications based on laser-induced graphene. This technique is based on the laser synthesis of graphene-based nanomaterials, specifically laser-induced graphene and reduced graphene oxide. The synthesis of these materials was performed using CO2 laser (10 mm). Direct laser writing of graphene is commonly used on solid surfaces based on polyimide, polyether sulfone and polyether ether ketone, which are widely used in many applications, including electrochemical processing , water desalination and fuel cells.

Herein, LIG was successfully synthesized on composite membranes composed of amino-functionalized polyether sulfone and carbon black. Comprehensive characterization of the prepared composite membranes and electrodes was carried out, employing various techniques such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and thermogravimetric analysis, as well as cyclic voltammetry and Nyquist diagrams, to evaluate their surface morphology and thermal stability. The electrochemical performance of laser-induced graphene electrodes (LIGEs) demonstrated substantial enhancements in comparison to the pristine NH2-PES membrane. After optimizing the laser writing parameters for these novel composite membranes, their performance as electrodes was evaluated. Specifically, gold nanoparticle-modified LIG electrodes (AuNPs/LIG) were successfully employed for the electrochemical detection of dopamine (DA), demonstrating the potential of these materials in sensor applications.