Introduction
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a super strong material using hollow nanoparticles and DNA. This material has potential applications in the fields of medicine and electronics.
Building Blocks: Hollow Nanoparticles
-The researchers used nanoparticles made from materials like gold and platinum, each measuring about 100 nanometres in size.
-These nanoparticles were shaped like solid or hollow cubes with flattened corners, or just the edges of a cube.
Using DNA as Glue
-DNA was used as a glue to assemble the tiny nanoparticles.
-Molecules of DNA were attached to the nanoparticles, and when mixed, the DNA bonded chemically, causing the nanoparticles to stick together and form a material.
Properties of the Material
-The researchers varied the shapes of the nanoparticles to create materials with different properties.
-Using mesh-like nanoparticles resulted in the highest strength and stiffness.
-The material made from hollow nanoparticles and DNA was stronger than conventionally manufactured materials made from larger building blocks.
-It could withstand ten times as much pressure as solid-nanoparticle materials.
Potential Applications and Future Research
-This research could lead to advancements in electronics, medical devices, and transportation.
-The properties of materials made using DNA-directed assembly can be controlled by manipulating their structure.
-There are numerous other combinations of constituents and architectures that can be explored in future research.
Conclusion
The combination of hollow nanoparticles and DNA as a glue has resulted in the creation of a super strong material. This development has promising implications for various industries and opens up possibilities for further research and exploration.
