Rapidly synthesized laser-induced graphene and its derivatives for miniaturized energy devices: Principles, applications, and challenges

This review highlights the latest progress in the field of graphene synthesis, with a focus on laser-induced graphene (LIG) and its growing applications in flexible and miniaturized energy storage devices, particularly supercapacitors. Graphene has remarkable electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties that have attracted significant attention. However, conventional production techniques, such as chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and mechanical exfoliation, face challenges related to scalability and environmental impact. LIG emerges as a viable alternative, offering a rapid, eco-friendly, and scalable approach to graphene production. LIG provides precise control over material properties by employing direct laser irradiation on carbon-based precursors. This review further explores various laser systems, including CO2 and visible light lasers, applied to substrates such as polyimide, paper, and cloth. It investigates how factors like laser power, scanning speed, and substrate type affect graphene quality. Furthermore, the review examines the integration of LIG into energy storage technologies, highlighting its flexibility, high conductivity, and extensive surface area. It also addresses enhancing LIG properties through doping with elements like boron, nitrogen, and sulfur and incorporating nanoparticles such as silver and cobalt into LIG-based composites. Furthermore, detailed discussions are provided on how these modifications improve supercapacitor performance, specifically regarding areal capacitance, energy density, and storage capacity. These advancements underscore the versatility of LIG and its potential for application in various substrates.