Biocompatible Biopolymer-Based Electronic Interfaces for Energy Sources
Abstract
The proposed effort continues the investigation of silk-based materials as the foundation of a new generation of eco- or bio-resorbable energy harvesting/conversion devices (photoactive devices, fuel cells, and batteries) that was initiated in FY13 under ONR Award N000141310596. Under ONR Award N000141310596, the Principal Investigator demonstrated that silk has the ability to stabilize energy-relevant biological functional entities, such as the enzymes glucose oxidase and laccase, while simultaneously exhibiting remarkable material properties and facile addition of inorganic dopants, such as conductive carbon nanotubes, for the generation of the first prototypes of enzymatic fuel cells. The objective of this proposed effort is to unravel the structure-function relationship between self-assembled silk material formats and their electronic and biochemical performance for use as energy-relevant materials for batteries and fuel-cells. Self-assembly provides a template for the organic (e.g. enzymes such as glucose oxidase and laccase) and inorganic dopants (e.g. carbon nanotubes, metal nanoparticles, or graphene) included in the initial water-based silk solution. This ultimately affects the end functionality of the material through the structural constraints imparted by the materials formation process. Top down processes (e.g. lithographies, etching, printing, etc.) will be used to further modify the materials to enhance and/or optimize the structure-function relationships obtained through bottom-up assembly. End material formats will be characterized for structural, electrical, and energy conversion functions in relation to their morphology and performance with the ultimate goal of developing a new class of performance-ready, biologically based materials for energy storage/conversion. The investigation on the material structure-function relationship will be separated into three tasks that will focus on understanding and optimizing (1) electronic function, (2) enzymatic function and longevity, and (3) composite materials that combine the two. The studies will focus primarily on three material formats: self-assembled films, aerogels, and monolith formats, with the additional option to study fiber materials as well. Each format will be optimized for function by controlling self-assembly conditions and applying top-down manufacturing approaches to optimize the interplay between structure and function. Finally, the different material formats will be assembled into relevant electrode structures for batteries, fuel cells, or energy harvesting devices to evaluate and optimize their behavior. At each step, materials will be extensively analyzed and characterized to provide relevant parameters for processing optimization. This research effort is expected to provide top-down fabrication approaches that will use Nature~s templates (from the nano- to the macro-scale) to design new classes of bioelectronic (and optoelectronic) functional substrates that are shelf-stable and cost-effective. Development of this sustainable approach addresses a critical need in identifying paths towards alternative materials and fuels along with the development of versatile energy sources. Scientific insights gained here would empower development in eco-resorbable, biopolymer-based materials for enzymatic batteries or fuel cells based on the inclusion of energy-generating biological substances within the materials themselves. Ultimately, the development of this material platform would help in furthering approaches for sustainable all water-based processing, cost-effective, biofriendly, portable energy sources for adaptable and personal power demands.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Aug 12, 2016
- Source ID
- N000141612437
Entities
People
- Fiorenzo Omenetto
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- Tufts University
- United States Navy