Laser-induced graphene (LIG) fabrication technology, introduced by the James Tour group at Rice University in 2014, has been extensively explored for various applications. These applications include physical sensors such as bending, temperature, and touch sensors; chemical sensors like gas and pH sensors; and energy storage devices, particularly micro-supercapacitors (MSCs). Additionally, theoretical studies utilizing molecular dynamics (MD) simulations have been conducted to investigate the LIG formation mechanism. However, the carbonization and graphitization of organic materials are complex and spatially non-uniform, making complete mechanistic interpretation difficult. Most existing research has primarily focused on chemical and materials science aspects, with practical process optimization using commercial laser systems largely limited to simple variations in laser power and scan speed. There is a lack of systematic studies addressing broader laser-parameter modulation. In this study, we systematically varied laser parameters—including power, scanning speed, pulse width, repetition rate, line spacing, and defocusing—and comprehensively evaluated the resulting electrical, physical, and chemical properties of LIG formed on wood substrates. The results provide insights into how graphene quality varies with laser processing conditions and demonstrate a versatile approach for controlling performance through laser modulation.

This paper extensively explores and analyzes the latest research trends in Ionic Polymer-Metal Composites (IPMC) sensors. IPMC sensors are known for their flexibility, lightness, and high responsiveness. They show great promise across different fields. They can respond sensitively to various stimuli such as mechanical deformation, humidity, and pressure, making them ideal for bio-responsive detection, health monitoring, and energy harvesting. This paper introduces actuation and sensing mechanisms of IPMCs, discusses their manufacturing processes, and explores how these processes can influence the responsiveness and stability of sensors. Moreover, through case studies of IPMC-based research that can perform self-sensing functions, it presents possibilities brought by the integration of sensors and actuators. This paper emphasizes the potential for research and development of IPMC sensors to expand into various industrial fields and explores ways to continuously improve the accuracy and reliability of sensors. IPMC-based sensors are expected to play a significant role in advancing medical devices and wearable technologies, thereby facilitating innovation in the field.

Many countries are trying to overcome global warming due to greenhouse gas emissions, such as CO₂. In particular, the regulation on CO₂ emissions of internal combustion engine vehicles has become strictly important. Thus, the automobile companies are putting more effort for improving the manufacturing of the battery, which is the main power supply of electrical vehicles. In the electrode cutting process, laser cutting has been actively discussed to solve problems originating from the conventional electrode cutting processes. However, there is a lack of research considering the effect of thickness of the active material on laser cutting. In this paper, the effect of thickness of the active material on laser cutting of electrodes is analyzed. First, the cut electrodes are observed through a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Next, the kerf width and clearance width of the electrodes are measured and compared at the same laser parameter. The kerf width and clearance width of relatively thick electrodes are narrowly formed. Finally, the cutting quality of the electrode is compared. A uniform cut edge is observed as the scanning speed increases.