Multifunctional laser-induced graphene enabled polymeric composites

Laser-induced graphene (LIG) has been witnessed with tremendous advantages including swift and simple process as well as tunable microstructures and properties for next-generation multifunctional composites. In this work, an upgraded process was innovatively proposed for assembling multifunctional graphene coatings on polymeric composites by combining extrusion-printing and LIG. Relying on computer-aided processing mode, both large-filled and specified graphene patterns have been achieved for supporting the LIG integrated composites (LIGC) with multiple functions. By virtue of high gauge factor of 134, the LIGC were highly suitable for strain-mapping. Benefiting from unique Joule-heating and hydrophobic properties, the LIGC could also be utilized for anti-icing and de-icing, with fast removal of an 8 cm3 ice-cube and effective defense of snowflake accumulation. Additionally, the LIGC showed outstanding flame-retardant efficiency with a 40% reduction of heat release rate (HRR) versus pristine composites.

Automated summary

Laser-induced graphene (LIG) offers advantages such as swift and simple process, tunable microstructures, and properties for multifunctional composites. A new process combining extrusion-printing and LIG was proposed, allowing for the assembly of multifunctional graphene coatings on polymeric composites. The resulting LIG integrated composites (LIGC) exhibited multiple functions, including strain-mapping, anti-icing, de-icing, and flame-retardant efficiency.