Protocell Computing on Aragonite Substrates

Aragonite-proteinoid microstructures are an emerging type of biocomputing material. They mix inorganic calcium carbonate with self-assembled organic proteinoid networks. Scanning electron microscopy shows a range of structures. These include isolated microspheres and complex networks over 50 μm. They have dendritic shapes, with uneven nodes that create linear patterns resembling simple network topologies. Electrochemical testing shows a threshold response. This allows for all seven basic Boolean logic operations: AND, OR, NOT, NAND, NOR, XOR, and XNOR. It does this by classifying analog signals into binary states. This suggests a promising future for material-based computation. Frequency-dependent square wave voltammetry shows power-law scaling. It performs best in the 30-50 Hz range, which is important for biological use. This indicates adjustable electrochemical properties that are ideal for bioelectronic applications. The systems show autonomous oscillatory behavior for over 25 h. They maintain a steady ultralow frequency, like biological rhythms. This means they generate signals on their own, without any outside help. Impedance spectroscopy shows stable circuit features. There are strong links between resistive and capacitive parts. However, cyclic voltammetry shows that electrochemical degradation increases over time. These findings show that aragonite-proteinoid microstructures are well-suited for novel computing uses. They can help with things like autonomous sensing, neuromorphic devices, and biohybrid electronics. These microstructures use mineral-organic interfaces for processing information and generating signals. This approach connects synthetic materials to biological computing principles.