The next generation of batteries could be made with the help of an unusual manufacturing partner—a virus that infects bacteria. Using an environmentally benign process, scientists at Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology coaxed a genetically engineered virus into building and wiring the cathode of a lithium-ion battery.

Read on: “Virus Power”

Scientists at MIT have developed a new, more environmentally friendly way to make lithium batteries. Their approach employs an unusual component: genetically engineered viruses.  These new batteries have the same energy capacity as other lithium batteries of the same size and show potential to develop even more powerful batteries.  MIT researcher Angela Belcher, who trained in biology, inorganic chemistry and electrical engineering, has long been interested in using natural biological processes to build better technology.”

Read on and listen at:  “Hidden Ingredient In New, Greener Battery: A Virus”

Viruses have been used to help build batteries that may one day power cars and all types of electronic devices. The speed and relatively cheap cost of manufacturing virus batteries could prove attractive to industry. Professor Angela Belcher, who led the research team, said: “Our material is powerful enough to be able to be used in a car battery.”

Read on: “Virus battery could ‘power cars’”

For the first time, MIT researchers have shown they can genetically engineer viruses to build both the positively and negatively charged ends of a lithium-ion battery.

Read on: “New virus-built battery could power cars, electronic devices”

Angela Belcher delivered the keynote address to a packed ballroom.  She sketched out potential nanotechnology solutions to global challenges in energy, health care, and the environment.

Read on:  “Chemists Meet in Utah”