Wired Viruses: New electrodes could make better batteries

With the aid of a bacteria-infecting virus, researchers have engineered cobalt oxide-and-gold nanowires that can be used as electrodes for lithium-ion batteries. The work could lead to thin and flexible power sources, the scientists say.

NO CAN SEE. An atomic-force microscope image shows the layer of viral nanowires that sits atop a roughly 1-micrometer-thick polymer film (inset) that can act as a flexible battery.