Formation of Laser-Induced Graphene on Smart Wearable Kevlar-Based Cloth as Flexible Electronics Applications

Abstract

The rapid advancement of wearable electronics has driven the need for flexible and conductive substrates capable of supporting integrated energy storage and sensing systems, particularly in sports and fitness monitoring applications. Kevlar fabric presents a unique opportunity among various substrate materials due to its inherent flexibility, durability, and high tensile strength. Traditionally used in protective gear such as bulletproof vests for its exceptional ballistic resistance, Kevlar can be effectively transformed into a functional electronic platform when modified with conductive materials. In this context, Laser-induced graphene (LIG) is a conductive electrode, making it appropriate for energy storage and sensing applications. Electrochemical performance characterizations of supercapacitors fabricated from Kevlar are conducted using cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and galvanostatic charge–discharge characterization. The CV investigation reveals these electrodes operate at an elevated scan rate of 800 mV/s. This higher scan rate also demonstrates the manifestation of electrical double-layer capacitor characteristics in the supercapacitor. A notable finding is that an areal capacitance of 87.79 mF/cm2 is measured at a scan rate 5 mV/s. In the electrical characterization of the physical sensor, it has demonstrated excellent potential as a highly sensitive touch sensor. These results indicate that laser-induced graphene on textiles has the potential to streamline the production of textile electronics with tailored designs for various applications.