Self-assembled DNA composite membranes

Conductive, self-assembled DNA composite membranes supported by a nano-porous polycarbonate substrate were fabricated. The porous polycarbonate support membranes were modified with Sn2+ positive charges to induce effective DNA adsorption. Optimum pore size of 0.1 μm and high pore density have been realized for track etched nano-porous polycarbonate membrane in the self-assembly process. Proton conductivity and methanol permeability (10 wt.%) were evaluated to be 8.0 × 10−2 S/cm and 5.0 × 10−7 cm2/s for 1.6 mg/cm2 of DNA loading, respectively. The self-assembled DNA composite membranes exhibit excellent proton conductivity, and enhanced mechanical properties with decreased methanol permeability.