1. Introduction
Precision agriculture is entering a new era with the advent of flexible leaf wetness sensors designed using laser-induced graphene (LIG) technology. These innovative sensors can detect moisture levels on plant leaves with exceptional sensitivity and durability. By combining advanced nanomaterials, flexibility, and conductivity, LIG-based sensors enable accurate environmental monitoring crucial for optimizing crop water use. This research not only advances agricultural sensing systems but also strengthens data-driven decision-making for sustainable food production.
2. Research Significance
The development of flexible LIG-based leaf wetness sensors marks a significant milestone in precision agriculture. Traditional sensors often struggle with durability and adaptability under field conditions. However, LIG sensors offer superior flexibility, mechanical strength, and environmental resistance. This innovation enables researchers to monitor microclimatic variations directly on crop leaves, improving irrigation efficiency and disease prevention strategies that rely on moisture dynamics.
3. Design and Fabrication Methodology
The sensor’s fabrication process involves laser scribing of polyimide substrates to create a graphene-based conductive network. This scalable and cost-effective approach eliminates the need for chemical treatments, making it environmentally friendly. The resulting LIG surface demonstrates high porosity, electrical conductivity, and mechanical flexibility, ensuring optimal sensitivity to water droplets while maintaining long-term stability under agricultural conditions.
4. Functional Performance and Validation
Performance testing under various humidity and environmental conditions reveals the sensor’s high responsiveness, rapid recovery, and precise wetness detection capabilities. Field trials demonstrate that the LIG-based sensor accurately tracks leaf surface wetness and correlates effectively with plant transpiration data. This validation confirms its potential for real-world agricultural applications such as automated irrigation and disease forecasting systems.
5. Applications in Precision Agriculture
Flexible LIG sensors are paving the way for smarter irrigation systems, real-time weather prediction, and sustainable water management practices. Integrated with IoT networks, they allow farmers to monitor crop conditions remotely and optimize resources effectively. Such technology aligns with global initiatives toward sustainable agriculture, promoting reduced water usage and improved crop resilience against climate change.
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