Enhanced electrochemical catalysis and sensing applications: fabrication process optimization and electrocatalytic characterization of polymeric matrix composite for one-step synthesis of Pd nanoparticle-decorated laser-induced graphene electrodes

Abstract

In this study, we present a novel hybrid nanomaterial, nano-palladium anchored on laser-induced graphene (nanoPd@LIG), which was synthesized using a one-step laser irradiation process. Various Pd(II)-polymer precursors were coated onto polyimide films. Our research focused on the formation of palladium nanoparticles (PdNPs), the porous structure pattern of LIG at different photon energy levels (controlled by varying the scan speed and laser power), and the volume ratio of the polymer solution to Pd(II). Various nanoPd@LIG nanocomposites were characterized by atomic force microscopy (AFM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Electrochemical behaviours were investigated using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). In addition, the electrochemical catalytic performance of the optimal nanoPd@LIG interface was evaluated using nitrite (NO₂⁻), nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). Compared to the other studied electrodes, the synergistic effect of the porous graphene structure and palladium nanoparticles (PdNPs) enhanced electrochemical performances showing increased current responses and lowered peak potentials. The electrochemical performances of nanoPd@LIG were suitable for the development of a wide range of sensors, biosensors, and bioelectronic devices.