DNA foams constructed by freeze drying and their optoelectronic characteristics

Abstract

The distinctive properties of DNA make it a promising biomaterial to use in nanoscience and nanotechnology. In the present study, DNA foam was fabricated into multi-dimensional shapes using a freeze drying process with liquid nitrogen and 3D printed molds. The physicochemical and optoelectronic properties of the fabricated DNA foams were investigated using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum, X-ray photoelectron spectrum (XPS), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) absorption spectrum, and current-voltage (I-V) characteristics to understand the changes formed in the DNA structure and their effect on properties during the fabrication of DNA foam. The FTIR and XPS analyses confirmed that nitrogen was diffusing into the DNA structure during the DNA foam fabrication. The diffused nitrogen caused a decrease in bond lengths, strong chemical bonds, compaction of DNA structure, existence of additional carbon-nitrogen bonds, and variation in the electron density of the base elements in DNA. These changes in the DNA structure of the DNA foam were reflected in their chemical, optical, and electrical properties. Furthermore, the proper utilization of DNA foams as a template for functional materials by embedding carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and thermocolor was demonstrated.