Molecular Dynamics Study of the Formation of Laser-Induced Graphene on Poly(furfuryl alcohol)

Graphene is an ultra-thin material with unprecedented chemical and mechanical properties. It is highly desirable for use in technological applications such as biosensors for disease detection and electrodes for energy storage devices, but expensive and energy-intensive synthesis methods have hindered it from widespread commercialization. New, more affordable ways of making graphene have thus been a significant research focus in the last few years. In 2014, it was accidentally discovered that a CO2 infrared laser – similar to those used by hobbyists for wood engraving – would form graphene when it struck a plastic film, dubbed ‘laser-induced graphene’ (LIG). Its advantages were immediately obvious: it was affordable, quick, and versatile, thus highly desirable for widespread use. The scope of this technique is limited, however, due to an unclear mechanism of formation. This project aims to use computational methods to study how poly(furfuryl alcohol), a polymer with many possible structural arrangements, turns into graphene under simulated lasing conditions. These simulations will help form an understanding of how plastics form graphene, which will broaden the potential of LIG and its application in a plethora of industries.

Faculty Supervisor:

Rodney Smith

Student:

Partner:

Universität Duisburg-Essen

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Nanotechnology; Quantum Science

University:

University of Waterloo

Program: