Laser-induced graphene for biomedical applications: innovations in health monitoring and diagnostics

Abstract

Laser-induced graphene (LIG) has emerged as a versatile and sustainable nanomaterial for biomedical applications, offering a unique combination of tunable surface chemistry, high electrical conductivity, mechanical flexibility, and biocompatibility. These superior properties, coupled with its facile and mask-free fabrication process, have positioned LIG as a promising platform for next-generation wearable and point-of-care sensors. This review presents a comprehensive overview of LIG synthesis, microstructures, properties, and functionalization strategies, with a particular focus on its applications in health monitoring and diagnostics. We highlight recent advances in LIG-based sensors for detecting physical, electrophysiological, chemical, and biochemical signals. Key challenges including material variability, miniaturization, scalability, stability, and biocompatibility are critically discussed. Finally, we explore future directions for integrating LIG biomedical sensors with emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data, and eco-friendly materials to enable intelligent, personalized, and sustainable healthcare solutions.