DNA-directed amphiphilic self-assembly as a chemifunctional/multiscale-structuring strategy for high-performance Li–S batteries. Issue 8 (5th February 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cho, Seok-Kyu; Cho, Sung-Ju; Lee, Seong-Sun; Choi, Keun-Ho; Lee, Sang-Young
• Is Part Of: Journal of materials chemistry. Volume 7:Issue 8(2019)
• Page Start: 4084
• Page End: 4092
• Publication Date: 2019-02-05
• Subjects: Materials -- Research -- Periodicals; Chemistry, Analytic -- Periodicals; Environmental sciences -- Research -- Periodicals; 543.0284
• DOI: 10.1039/c8ta11398j
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2050-7488

Abstract

Abstract : DNA-directed amphiphilic self-assembly is presented as a new class of a chemifunctional/multiscale-structuring strategy and its potential application to Li–S cathode was explored. Abstract : Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)-based self-assembly has garnered considerable attention as a high-fidelity 'bottom-up' fabrication technique. Herein, intrigued by the amphiphilic nature of DNA molecules, we demonstrate a new class of DNA-directed amphiphilic self-assembly as a chemifunctional/multiscale-structuring strategy, beyond the previously reported DNA-mediated assemblies, and explore its potential application to lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries as a proof-of-concept. DNA-directed amphiphilic self-assembly enables the formation of various structures with a wide range of dimensional scales and exceptionally low bundle/junction electrical resistance, which are difficult to achieve with conventional DNA-mediated assemblies. The amphiphilic DNA molecules interact with single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) through hydrophobic π–π stacking and divalent metal ions via electrostatic interaction. This results in electrically conductive DNA/SWCNT foams with hierarchical multiscale porous structures that can act as functional scaffolds of Li–S battery cathodes. Benefiting from the above-described advantageous effects, the DNA/SWCNT scaffold allows the resultant Li–S battery to provide significantly improved electrochemical performance.