Iron-Catalyzed Laser-Induced Graphitization – Multiscale Analysis of the Structural Evolution and Underlying Mechanism


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Date

2024-12-05

Publication Type

Journal Article

ETH Bibliography

yes

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Abstract

The transition to sustainable materials and eco-efficient processes in commercial electronics is a driving force in developing green electronics. Iron-catalyzed laser-induced graphitization (IC-LIG) has been demonstrated as a promising approach for rendering biomaterials electrically conductive. To optimize the IC-LIG process and fully exploit its potential for future green electronics, it is crucial to gain deeper insights into its catalyzation mechanism and structural evolution. However, this is challenging due to the rapid nature of the laser-induced graphitization process. Therefore, multiscale preparation techniques, including ultramicrotomy of the cross-sectional transition zone from precursor to fully graphitized IC-LIG electrode, are employed to virtually freeze the IC-LIG process in time. Complementary characterization is performed to generate a 3D model that integrates nanoscale findings within a mesoscopic framework. This enabled tracing the growth and migration behavior of catalytic iron nanoparticles and their role during the catalytic laser-graphitization process. A three-layered arrangement of the IC-LIG electrode is identified including a highly graphitized top layer with an interplanar spacing of 0.343 nm. The middle layer contained gamma-iron nanoparticles encapsulated in graphitic shells. A comparison with catalyst-free laser graphitization approaches highlights the unique opportunities that IC-LIG offers and discuss potential applications in energy storage devices, catalysts, sensors, and beyond.

Publication status

published

Editor

Book title

Journal / series

Volume

20 (49)

Pages / Article No.

2405558

Publisher

Wiley-VCH

Event

Edition / version

Methods

Software

Geographic location

Date collected

Date created

Subject

austenite; iron-carbon composite; multilayer electrode; ostwald ripening; particle coalescence; sustainable electrode

Organisational unit

03917 - Burgert, Ingo / Burgert, Ingo check_circle

Notes

Funding

219319 - Laser-Mediated Wood Surface Engineering (SNF)

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