This advanced technology leverages DNA nanostructures as templates to fabricate graphitic carbon materials with precision. The process begins by coating DNA with a thin aluminum oxide layer via atomic layer deposition that acts as a protective barrier during high-temperature carbonization at 780°C to 1000°C in a low-pressure hydrogen or inert atmosphere. This treatment converts the DNA framework into structured carbon while maintaining its intricate morphology. After carbonization, an etching process removes the protective layer, unveiling a material with customizable properties such as enhanced strength, tailored porosity, and improved conductivity, as confirmed through techniques like AFM, Raman spectroscopy, and UV/Ozone treatment.
Description
This approach stands apart by integrating DNA nanotechnology with high-temperature processing, overcoming the thermal instability of biological templates. The innovative protective coating method preserves complex DNA geometries and enables carbonization that retains nanoscale details with a resolution down to 2 nanometers. Its precise control over material structure and rapid processing capabilities not only extend the potential for electronics, energy storage, and advanced material applications but also offer a marked improvement over conventional carbon fabrication techniques.
Applications
- Nanoelectronic device fabrication
- Battery electrode manufacturing
- Supercapacitor production processes
- Precision nanocomposite integration
Advantages
- Enables precise control over graphitic material structure by leveraging intricately designed DNA templates.
- Utilizes an innovative Al2O3 protective coating to safeguard DNA during high-temperature carbonization, preserving nanoscale morphology.
- Allows tailoring of material properties such as strength, porosity, and conductivity through customizable DNA configurations.
- Extends DNA nanotechnology into high-temperature processing applications, opening new avenues in electronics and energy storage.
- Achieves exceptional resolution (down to 2 nanometers) and rapid carbonization, enhancing overall fabrication efficiency.
IP Status
https://patents.google.com/patent/US11739421B2
