Flexible Integrated Air Pressure Sensors for Monitoring Positive and Negative Pressure Distribution

Barometric pressure monitoring typically depends on conventional rigid microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) for single-point measurements. However, applications such as fluid dynamics require mapping barometric pressure distribution to study phenomena such as pressure variations on an aircraft wing during flight. In this study, we developed a mechanically flexible, multichannel air pressure sensor sheet using laser-induced graphene (LIG). This air pressure sensor sheet is designed to be mechanically flexible, allowing it to conform to nonplanar objects. First, the crystallinity change of LIG is studied by monitoring the bottom and top surfaces, revealing the presence of multilayered graphene and amorphous-like carbon in the formation of LIG. This explains the crystallinity change before and after the transfer process. Using LIG with optimal structures, negative and positive pressure detection is achieved, enabling its use as an air pressure sensor. Finally, as a proof-of-concept for the multichannel air pressure sensor sheet, the pressure distribution on the surface of an aircraft wing model is successfully mapped out.