Molecular insights: The impact of laser-oxidation on graphene-bio interfaces
Graphene has captured the attention of scientists since its discovery in 2004. It consists of a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal honeycomb lattice, thus being ultrathin and hydrophobic. Graphene presents outstanding electronic properties while being mechanically robust, making it a good candidate for advanced interfaces between the human organism and electronic devices.
In 2015 an innovative technique related to graphene was developed at the Ģֱ. Professor Mika Pettersson’s research group developed a method for laser-induced oxidation of graphene surfaces with nanoscale precision. This method allows for precise modification of graphene’s properties, such as hydrophobicity and conductivity, and is utilized in Johanna Schirmer’s dissertation.
"The laser-induced oxidation of graphene allows for the customization of its chemical and physical properties. This opens up new possibilities for designing surfaces and interfaces”, explains Schirmer.
The potential of laser-modified graphene
The studies presented in Schirmer’s dissertation focus on the impact of laser-oxidized graphene surfaces on biological components and biomimetic materials. The results are promising, indicating that the oxidation process affects protein immobilization and function.
Furthermore, a supramolecular hydrogel was studied as a potential mimicry of the environment of cells in our body. This hydrogel consists of small molecules self-assembling into fibers to trap liquids and form a gel. The arrangement of molecules within the gel was affected by the oxidation process. Based on the understanding of these interactions at the molecular level, researchers at the Ģֱ and Tampere University are exploring the potential of creating interfaces between graphene and nerve cells, using laser-induced oxidation.
“The overarching idea of our project, to develop a graphene-based neural interface, immediately captivated me. My subproject, which involved investigating laser-oxidized graphene with a focus on biological components, combined chemistry, biology, and materials science — a fascinating and challenging blend”, describes Schirmer.
All studies included in the thesis were performed in collaboration with other researchers from the Nanoscience Center and the United Kingdom and were funded by the Jane and Aatos Erkko Foundation.
The examination of Johanna Schirmer's doctoral thesis ”Effects of two-photon oxidation for the development of graphene-bio interfaces" is held on 4.12.2023 at noon in Ylistönrinne, room FYS1. Opponent Professor Chiara Zanardi (University of Venice, Italy) and Custos Professor Mika Pettersson (Ģֱ). The doctoral dissertation is held in English.
Publishing information
The dissertation ”Effects of two-photon oxidation for the development of graphene-bio interfaces" can be read on the JYX publication archive:
