Journal of Undergraduate Research
Keywords
optimizing metallization, DNA-templated nanostructures, microprocessors
College
Physical and Mathematical Sciences
Department
Chemistry and Biochemistry
Abstract
With countless technologies that rely on microprocessors, there is a great need for increasingly smaller microelectronic components. Traditionally, manufacturers have employed a “top-down” approach to build microelectronics – that is, they have attempted to scale functional microcircuitry components down in size, hoping for similar performance in a smaller circuit. This top-down approach is expensive, often costing manufacturers hundreds of dollars per part. A much more cost-effective approach to microelectronics has emerged over the past decade in the field of molecular science: that is, to develop circuitry from the “bottom-up” using macromolecules such as deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). Scientists have now devised methods to fabricate conductive nanowires using DNA templates. Because DNA chemistry is well-understood, easily controlled, and inexpensive, it has great potential to become the new standard for nanowire fabrication.
Recommended Citation
Dearden, Andrew and Woolley, Adam
(2015)
"Optimizing Metallization of DNA-templated Nanostructures,"
Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2015:
Iss.
1, Article 194.
Available at:
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2015/iss1/194