Ideas worth spreading

Using nature to grow batteries

1,008,328 views | Angela Belcher • TEDxCaltech

Inspired by an abalone shell, Angela Belcher programs viruses to make elegant nanoscale structures that humans can use. Selecting for high-performing genes through directed evolution, she's produced viruses that can construct powerful new batteries, clean hydrogen fuels and record-breaking solar cells. In her talk, she shows us how it's done.

Inspired by an abalone shell, Angela Belcher programs viruses to make elegant nanoscale structures that humans can use. Selecting for high-performing genes through directed evolution, she's produced viruses that can construct powerful new batteries, clean hydrogen fuels and record-breaking solar cells. In her talk, she shows us how it's done.

This talk was presented to a local audience at TEDxCaltech, an independent event. TED's editors chose to feature it for you.

Read more about TEDx.

About the speaker

Angela Belcher

Biological engineer

See speaker profile

Angela Belcher looks to nature for inspiration on how to engineer viruses to create extraordinary new materials.

About TEDx

TEDx was created in the spirit of TED's mission, "ideas worth spreading." It supports independent organizers who want to create a TED-like event in their own community.

Find a TEDx event near you

This talk was presented to a local audience at TEDxCaltech, an independent event. TED's editors chose to feature it for you.

Read more about TEDx.