Finding new compounds is one thing, but transforming them into useful materials in the context of sustainable development requires new synthesis strategies, including bio-inspired/biomimetic approaches. These include, for example, the use of genetically modified viruses for the preparation of nanostructured electrodes, as well as the bacterial approach, as yet little explored in the field of Li-ion batteries, which relies on the ability of certain bacterial strains to promote biomineralization reactions, either by locally modifying the chemistry of the medium, or by providing surfaces favorable to the nucleation of mineral phases. The application of these bio-mineralization reactions, which give rise to the process of mineral production by living organisms, has been demonstrated for the synthesis of various a-Fe2O3, FePO4.H2Oelectrode materials with controlled sizes and morphologies. Its extension to other oxides, as well as to Fe and Mn phosphates and silicates, is also discussed.
The presentation concludes by highlighting the numerous possibilities offered by synthesis via viruses or bacteria for piezoelectric conversion, photoelectrolysis of water and even for the development of electrical macro-generators. The bio-inspired synthesis of materials for energy storage is in full swing, with constant progress being made despite the growing complexity of synthesis methods.
