Inspired by nature, scientists design protein-esque molecules to lock up carbon dioxide

For eons, marine organisms have taken in carbon dioxide dissolved in water and turned it into protective calcium carbonate layers, or seashells with the assistance of proteins. Inspired by these creatures and looking to reduce atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, a team led by scientists at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory sought to mimic this process by a rational design of highly stable protein-like molecules (called peptoids). The team discovered that they could speed or slow calcium carbonate or calcite formation by changing the peptoid's structure and tuning its electric charge and affinity for water.

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