DNA encapsulated single-walled carbon nanotubes formed by DNA ion irradiation in electrolyte plasmas

The encapsulation of DNA into single-walled carbon nanotubes is demonstrated using a DNA solution which is regarded as a plasma, i.e., an electrolyte plasma. A direct current electric field is applied to the electrolyte plasma containing DNA negative ions in order to irradiate single-walled carbon nanotubes with the DNA ions. In addition, a radio frequency electric field is superimposed on the plasma to change the conformation of DNA from randomcoiled to stretched. Transmission electron microscopy and Raman scattering spectrum analyses reveal that DNA is found to be encapsulated into the singlewalled carbon nanotubes.