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Lopez-Ceja J, Flores V, Juliano S, Machler S, Smith S, Mansingh G, Shen M, Tanjeem N. Programmable Crowding and Tunable Phases in a Binary Mixture of Colloidal Particles under Light-Driven Thermal Convection. J Phys Chem B 2024; 128:9244-9254. [PMID: 39047259 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.4c02301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
We employ photothermally driven self-assembly of colloidal particles to design microscopic structures with programmable size and tunable order. The experimental system is based on a binary mixture of "plasmonic heater" gold nanoparticles and "assembly building block" microparticles. Photothermal heating of the gold nanoparticles under visible light causes a natural convection flow that efficiently assembles the microscale building block particles (diameter 1-10 μm) into a monolayer. We identify the onset of active Brownian motion of colloidal particles under this convective flow by varying the conditions of light intensity, gold nanoparticle concentration, and sample height. We realize a crowded assembly of microparticles around the center of illumination and show that the size of the particle crowd can be programmed using patterned light illumination. In a binary mixture of gold nanoparticles and polystyrene microparticles, we demonstrate the formation of rapid and large-scale crystalline monolayers, covering an area of 0.88 mm2 within 10 min. We find that the structural order of the assembly can be tuned by varying the surface charge of the nanoparticles and the size of the microparticles, giving rise to the formation of different phases-colloidal crystals, crowds, and gels. Using Monte Carlo simulations, we explain how the phases emerge from the interplay between hydrodynamic and electrostatic interactions, as well as the assembly kinetics. Our study demonstrates the promise of self-assembly with programmable shapes and structural order under nonequilibrium conditions using an accessible setup comprising only binary mixtures and LED light.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose Lopez-Ceja
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, California State University, Fullerton, California 92831, United states
| | - Vanessa Flores
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, California State University, Fullerton, California 92831, United states
| | - Shirlaine Juliano
- Department of Biology, California State University, Fullerton, California 92831, United states
| | - Sean Machler
- Department of Physics, California State University, Fullerton, California 92831, United states
| | - Stephen Smith
- Department of Physics, California State University, Fullerton, California 92831, United states
| | - Gargi Mansingh
- Department of Physics, California State University, Fullerton, California 92831, United states
| | - Meng Shen
- Department of Physics, California State University, Fullerton, California 92831, United states
| | - Nabila Tanjeem
- Department of Physics, California State University, Fullerton, California 92831, United states
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2
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Akter M, Kabir AMR, Keya JJ, Sada K, Asanuma H, Kakugo A. Localized Control of the Swarming of Kinesin-Driven Microtubules Using Light. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:37748-37753. [PMID: 39281908 PMCID: PMC11391547 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c03216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/18/2024]
Abstract
The swarming of self-propelled cytoskeletal filaments has emerged as a new aspect in the field of molecular machines or robotics, as it has overcome one of the major challenges of controlling the mutual interaction of a large number of individuals at a time. Recently, we reported on the photoregulated swarming of kinesin-driven cytoskeletal microtubule filaments in which visible (VIS) and ultraviolet (UV) light triggered the association and dissociation of the swarm, respectively. However, systematic control of this potential system has yet to be achieved to optimize swarming for further applications in molecular machines or robotics. Here, we demonstrate the precise and localized control of a biomolecular motor-based swarm system by varying different parameters related to photoirradiation. We control the reversibility of the swarming by changing the wavelength or intensity of light and the number of azobenzenes in DNA. In addition, we regulate the swarming in local regions by introducing different-sized or shaped patterns in the UV light system. Such a detailed study of the precise control of swarming would provide new perspectives for developing a molecular swarm system for further applications in engineering systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mousumi Akter
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 48108, Michigan United States
| | | | - Jakia Jannat Keya
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Kazuki Sada
- Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0810, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Asanuma
- Graduate School of Engineering, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8603, Japan
| | - Akira Kakugo
- Department of Physics, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8224, Japan
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3
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Navas SF, Klapp SHL. Impact of non-reciprocal interactions on colloidal self-assembly with tunable anisotropy. J Chem Phys 2024; 161:054908. [PMID: 39105552 DOI: 10.1063/5.0214730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Non-reciprocal (NR) effective interactions violating Newton's third law occur in many biological systems, but can also be engineered in synthetic, colloidal systems. Recent research has shown that such NR interactions can have tremendous effects on the overall collective behavior and pattern formation, but can also influence aggregation processes on the particle scale. Here, we focus on the impact of non-reciprocity on the self-assembly of a colloidal system (originally passive) with anisotropic interactions whose character is tunable by external fields. In the absence of non-reciprocity, that is, under equilibrium conditions, the colloids form square-like and hexagonal aggregates with extremely long lifetimes yet no large-scale phase separation [Kogler et al., Soft Matter 11, 7356 (2015)], indicating kinetic trapping. Here, we study, based on Brownian dynamics simulations in 2D, an NR version of this model consisting of two species with reciprocal isotropic, but NR anisotropic interactions. We find that NR induces an effective propulsion of particle pairs and small aggregates ("active colloidal molecules") forming at the initial stages of self-assembly, an indication of the NR-induced non-equilibrium. The shape and stability of these initial clusters strongly depend on the degree of anisotropy. At longer times, we find, for weak NR interactions, large (even system-spanning) clusters where single particles can escape and enter at the boundaries, in stark contrast to the small rigid aggregates appearing at the same time in the passive case. In this sense, weak NR shortcuts the aggregation. Increasing the degree of NR (and thus, propulsion), we even observe large-scale phase separation if the interactions are weakly anisotropic. In contrast, systems with strong NR and anisotropy remain essentially disordered. Overall, the NR interactions are shown to destabilize the rigid aggregates interrupting self-assembly and phase separation in the passive case, thereby helping the system to overcome kinetic barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salman Fariz Navas
- Institute for Theoretical Physics, Technical University of Berlin, Hardenbergstr. 36, 10623 Berlin, Germany
| | - Sabine H L Klapp
- Institute for Theoretical Physics, Technical University of Berlin, Hardenbergstr. 36, 10623 Berlin, Germany
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4
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Polev K, Paneru G, Visyn V, Cybulski O, Lach S, Kolygina DV, Edel E, Grzybowski BA. Light-Driven, Dynamic Assembly of Micron-To-Centimeter Parts, Micromachines and Microbot Swarms. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2402263. [PMID: 38924658 PMCID: PMC11348064 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202402263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
This work describes light-driven assembly of dynamic formations and functional particle swarms controlled by appropriately programmed light patterns. The system capitalizes on the use of a fluidic bed whose low thermal conductivity assures that light-generated heat remains "localized" and sets strong convective flows in the immediate vicinity of the particles being irradiated. In this way, even low-power laser light or light from a desktop slide projector can be used to organize dynamic formations of objects spanning four orders of magnitude in size (from microns to centimeters) and over nine orders of magnitude in terms of mass. These dynamic assemblies include open-lattice structures with individual particles performing intricate translational and/or rotational motions, density-gradient particle arrays, nested architectures of mechanical components (e.g., planetary gears), or swarms of light-actuated microbots controlling assembly of other objects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin Polev
- Center for Algorithmic and Robotized Synthesis (CARS)Korea's Institute for Basic Science (IBS)Ulsan44919South Korea
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST)Ulsan44919South Korea
| | - Govind Paneru
- Center for Algorithmic and Robotized Synthesis (CARS)Korea's Institute for Basic Science (IBS)Ulsan44919South Korea
- Department of PhysicsUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST)Ulsan44919South Korea
| | - Valentin Visyn
- Center for Algorithmic and Robotized Synthesis (CARS)Korea's Institute for Basic Science (IBS)Ulsan44919South Korea
| | - Olgierd Cybulski
- Center for Algorithmic and Robotized Synthesis (CARS)Korea's Institute for Basic Science (IBS)Ulsan44919South Korea
| | - Slawomir Lach
- Center for Algorithmic and Robotized Synthesis (CARS)Korea's Institute for Basic Science (IBS)Ulsan44919South Korea
| | - Diana V. Kolygina
- Center for Algorithmic and Robotized Synthesis (CARS)Korea's Institute for Basic Science (IBS)Ulsan44919South Korea
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST)Ulsan44919South Korea
| | - Evelyn Edel
- Center for Algorithmic and Robotized Synthesis (CARS)Korea's Institute for Basic Science (IBS)Ulsan44919South Korea
| | - Bartosz A. Grzybowski
- Center for Algorithmic and Robotized Synthesis (CARS)Korea's Institute for Basic Science (IBS)Ulsan44919South Korea
- Department of ChemistryUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST)Ulsan44919South Korea
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5
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Li W, Liu B, Ou L, Li G, Lei D, Xiong Z, Xu H, Wang J, Tang J, Li D. Arbitrary Construction of Versatile NIR-Driven Microrobots. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2402482. [PMID: 38940072 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202402482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Emerging light-driven micro/nanorobots (LMNRs) showcase profound potential for sophisticated manipulation and various applications. However, the realization of a versatile and straightforward fabrication technique remains a challenging pursuit. This study introduces an innovative bulk heterojunction organic semiconductor solar cell (OSC)-based spin-coating approach, aiming to facilitate the arbitrary construction of LMNRs. Leveraging the distinctive properties of a near-infrared (NIR)-responsive organic semiconductor heterojunction solution, this technique enables uniform coating across various dimensional structures (0D, 1D, 2D, 3D) to be LMNRs, denoted as "motorization." The film, with a slender profile measuring ≈140 nm in thickness, effectively preserves the original morphology of objects while imparting actuation capabilities exceeding hundreds of times their own weight. The propelled motion of these microrobots is realized through NIR-driven photoelectrochemical reaction-induced self-diffusiophoresis, showcasing a versatile array of controllable motion profiles. The strategic customization of arbitrary microrobot construction addresses specific applications, ranging from 0D microrobots inducing living crystal formation to intricate, multidimensional structures designed for tasks such as microplastic extraction, cargo delivery, and phototactic precise maneuvers. This study advances user-friendly and versatile LMNR technologies, unlocking new possibilities for various applications, signaling a transformative era in multifunctional micro/nanorobot technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanyuan Li
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Coordination Chemistry, Jinan University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Baiyao Liu
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Coordination Chemistry, Jinan University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Leyan Ou
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Coordination Chemistry, Jinan University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Gangzhou Li
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Coordination Chemistry, Jinan University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Dapeng Lei
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Coordination Chemistry, Jinan University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Ze Xiong
- Wireless and Smart Bioelectronics Lab, School of Biomedical Engineering, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, P. R. China
| | - Huihua Xu
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Coordination Chemistry, Jinan University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Jizhuang Wang
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Coordination Chemistry, Jinan University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Jinyao Tang
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Dan Li
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Coordination Chemistry, Jinan University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
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6
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Liu S, Li Y, Xu H, Kearns DB, Wu Y. Active interface bulging in Bacillus subtilis swarms promotes self-assembly and biofilm formation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2322025121. [PMID: 39052827 PMCID: PMC11295035 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2322025121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Microbial communities such as biofilms are commonly found at interfaces. However, it is unclear how the physical environment of interfaces may contribute to the development and behavior of surface-associated microbial communities. Combining multimode imaging, single-cell tracking, and numerical simulations, here, we found that activity-induced interface bulging promotes colony biofilm formation in Bacillus subtilis swarms presumably via segregation and enrichment of sessile cells in the bulging area. Specifically, the diffusivity of passive particles is ~50% lower inside the bulging area than elsewhere, which enables a diffusion-trapping mechanism for self-assembly and may account for the enrichment of sessile cells. We also uncovered a quasilinear relation between cell speed and surface-packing density that underlies the process of active interface bulging. Guided by the speed-density relation, we demonstrated reversible formation of liquid bulges by manipulating the speed and local density of cells with light. Over the course of development, the active bulges turned into striped biofilm structures, which eventually give rise to a large-scale ridge pattern. Our findings reveal a unique physical mechanism of biofilm formation at air-solid interface, which is pertinent to engineering living materials and directed self-assembly in active fluids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Liu
- Department of Physics and Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ye Li
- Department of Physics and Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, People’s Republic of China
- Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong518055, China
| | - Haoran Xu
- Department of Physics and Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Daniel B. Kearns
- Department of Biology, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN47405-7005
| | - Yilin Wu
- Department of Physics and Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, People’s Republic of China
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7
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McDonald MN, Tree DR, Peterson CK. Chemical herding as a multiplicative factor for top-down manipulation of colloids. Phys Rev E 2024; 109:064609. [PMID: 39020876 DOI: 10.1103/physreve.109.064609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Colloidal particles can create reconfigurable nanomaterials, with applications such as color-changing, self-repairing, and self-regulating materials and reconfigurable drug delivery systems. However, top-down methods for manipulating colloids are limited in the scale they can control. We consider here a new method for using chemical reactions to multiply the effects of existing top-down colloidal manipulation methods to arrange large numbers of colloids with single-particle precision, which we refer to as chemical herding. Using simulation-based methods, we show that if a set of chemically active colloids (herders) can be steered using external forces (i.e., electrophoretic, dielectrophoretic, magnetic, or optical forces), then a larger set of colloids (followers) that move in response to the chemical gradients produced by the herders can be steered using the control algorithms given in this paper. We also derive bounds that predict the maximum number of particles that can be steered in this way, and we illustrate the effectiveness of this approach using Brownian dynamics simulations. Based on the theoretical results and simulations, we conclude that chemical herding is a viable method for multiplying the effects of existing colloidal manipulation methods to create useful structures and materials.
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8
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Qin L, Wang H, Zhang Z. Synthesis and Assembly of Photoresponsive Colloidal Tubes. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2402389. [PMID: 38757548 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202402389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Inspired by the sophisticated multicomponent and multistage assembly of proteins and their mixtures in living cells, this study rationally designs and fabricates photoresponsive colloidal tubes that can self-assemble and hybrid-assemble when mixed with colloidal spheres and rods. Time-resolved observation and computer simulation reveal that the assembly is driven by phoretic attraction originating from osmotic pressures. These pressures are induced by the chemical concentration gradients generated by the photochemical reaction caused by colloidal tubes in a H2O2 solution under ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. The assembled structure is dictated by the size and shape of the constituent colloids as well as the intensity of the UV irradiation. Additionally, the resulting assembly can undergo self-propelled motion originating from the broken symmetry of the surrounding concentration gradients. This motion can be steered by a magnetic field and used for microscale cargo delivery. The study demonstrates a facile synthesis method for colloidal tubes and highlights their unique potential for controlled, hierarchical self-assembly and hybrid-assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulu Qin
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Huaguang Wang
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Zexin Zhang
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
- Institute for Advanced Study, Center for Soft Condensed Matter Physics and Interdisciplinary Research, School of Physical Science and Technology, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, China
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9
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Panda SK, Debata S, Kherani NA, Singh DP. Dynamics and phase behavior of metallo-dielectric rod-shaped microswimmers driven by alternating current electric field. SOFT MATTER 2024; 20:3971-3979. [PMID: 38686451 DOI: 10.1039/d4sm00206g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
The ability to move and self-organize in response to external stimuli is a fascinating feature of living active matter. Here, the metallo-dielectric rod-shaped microswimmers are shown to have a similar behavior in the presence of an AC electric field. The silica-copper Janus microrods were fabricated using the physical vapor deposition-based glancing angle deposition technique (GLAD). When the aqueous solution of the microrods was under the influence of an external AC electric field, they were found to exhibit different phases such as clustering, swimming, and vertical standing in response to variation of the applied frequency. The swimming behavior (5-90 kHz) of the rods is attributed to the induced-charge electrophoresis (ICEP) phenomenon, whereas the dynamic clustering (<5 kHz) could be explained in terms of the electrohydrodynamic (EHD) interaction. Interestingly, the rods flip to attain the vertically standing position when responding to the applied electric field above 90 kHz. The reorientation and switching of the major axis of the rod along the field direction is attributed to the electro-orientation phenomenon. This is basically due to the dominance of the electric torque above the upper limit of the characteristic frequency, where the strength of slip flows around the microrods is predicted to be poor. The present study not only offers insight into the fundamental aspects of the dynamics and the phase behavior of rod-shaped microswimmers, but also opens an avenue to design reconfigurable active matter systems with features inspired by biological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suvendu Kumar Panda
- Department of Physics, IIT Bhilai, Kutelabhata, Durg, Chhattisgarh, 491002, India.
| | - Srikanta Debata
- Department of Physics, IIT Bhilai, Kutelabhata, Durg, Chhattisgarh, 491002, India.
| | - Nomaan Alam Kherani
- Department of Physics, IIT Bhilai, Kutelabhata, Durg, Chhattisgarh, 491002, India.
| | - Dhruv Pratap Singh
- Department of Physics, IIT Bhilai, Kutelabhata, Durg, Chhattisgarh, 491002, India.
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10
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Feng K, Shen W, Chen L, Gong J, Palberg T, Qu J, Niu R. Weak Ion-Exchange Based Magnetic Swarm for Targeted Drug Delivery and Chemotherapy. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2306798. [PMID: 38059804 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202306798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Swimming microrobots that are actuated by multiple stimuli/fields display various intriguing collective behaviors, ranging from phase separation to clustering and giant number fluctuation; however, it is still chanllenging to achieve multiple responses and functionalities within one colloidal system to emulate high environmental adaptability and improved tasking capability of natural swarms. In this work, a weak ion-exchange based swarm is presented that can self-organize and reconfigure by chemical, light, and magnetic fields, showing living crystal, amorphous glass, liquid, chain, and wheel-like structures. By changing the frequency and strength of the rotating magnetic field, various well-controlled and fast transformations are obtained. Experiments show the high adaptability and functionality of the microrobot swarm in delivering drugs in confined spaces, such as narrow channels with turns or obstacles. The drug-carrying swarm exhibits excellent chemtherapy for Hela and CT26 cells due to the pH-enhanced drug release and locomotion. This reconfigurable microswarm provides a new platform for biomedical and environmental applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Feng
- Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry for Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry and Service Failure, Hubei Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials and Medical Protective Materials, Semiconductor Chemistry Center, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Wenqi Shen
- Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221002, China
| | - Ling Chen
- Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry for Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry and Service Failure, Hubei Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials and Medical Protective Materials, Semiconductor Chemistry Center, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Jiang Gong
- Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry for Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry and Service Failure, Hubei Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials and Medical Protective Materials, Semiconductor Chemistry Center, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Thomas Palberg
- Institut für physics, Johannes Gutenberg-Universtät Mainz, Staudingerweg 7, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Jinping Qu
- Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry for Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry and Service Failure, Hubei Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials and Medical Protective Materials, Semiconductor Chemistry Center, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Technique and Equipment for Macromolecular Advanced Manufacturing, School of Mechanical and Automotive Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510641, China
| | - Ran Niu
- Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry for Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry and Service Failure, Hubei Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials and Medical Protective Materials, Semiconductor Chemistry Center, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
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11
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Wang Y, Chen H, Xie L, Liu J, Zhang L, Yu J. Swarm Autonomy: From Agent Functionalization to Machine Intelligence. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2312956. [PMID: 38653192 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202312956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Swarm behaviors are common in nature, where individual organisms collaborate via perception, communication, and adaptation. Emulating these dynamics, large groups of active agents can self-organize through localized interactions, giving rise to complex swarm behaviors, which exhibit potential for applications across various domains. This review presents a comprehensive summary and perspective of synthetic swarms, to bridge the gap between the microscale individual agents and potential applications of synthetic swarms. It is begun by examining active agents, the fundamental units of synthetic swarms, to understand the origins of their motility and functionality in the presence of external stimuli. Then inter-agent communications and agent-environment communications that contribute to the swarm generation are summarized. Furthermore, the swarm behaviors reported to date and the emergence of machine intelligence within these behaviors are reviewed. Eventually, the applications enabled by distinct synthetic swarms are summarized. By discussing the emergent machine intelligence in swarm behaviors, insights are offered into the design and deployment of autonomous synthetic swarms for real-world applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yibin Wang
- School of Science and Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, 518172, China
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society, Shenzhen, 518172, China
| | - Hui Chen
- School of Science and Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, 518172, China
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society, Shenzhen, 518172, China
| | - Leiming Xie
- School of Science and Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, 518172, China
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society, Shenzhen, 518172, China
| | - Jinbo Liu
- School of Science and Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, 518172, China
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society, Shenzhen, 518172, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Jiangfan Yu
- School of Science and Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, 518172, China
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society, Shenzhen, 518172, China
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12
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Chen S, Prado-Morales C, Sánchez-deAlcázar D, Sánchez S. Enzymatic micro/nanomotors in biomedicine: from single motors to swarms. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:2711-2719. [PMID: 38239179 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb02457a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Micro/nanomotors (MNMs) have evolved from single self-propelled entities to versatile systems capable of performing one or multiple biomedical tasks. When single MNMs self-assemble into coordinated swarms, either under external control or triggered by chemical reactions, they offer advantages that individual MNMs cannot achieve. These benefits include intelligent multitasking and adaptability to changes in the surrounding environment. Here, we provide our perspective on the evolution of MNMs, beginning with the development of enzymatic MNMs since the first theoretical model was proposed in 2005. These enzymatic MNMs hold immense promise in biomedicine due to their advantages in biocompatibility and fuel availability. Subsequently, we introduce the design and application of single motors in biomedicine, followed by the control of MNM swarms and their biomedical applications. In the end, we propose viable solutions for advancing the development of MNM swarms and anticipate valuable insights into the creation of more intelligent and controllable MNM swarms for biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuqin Chen
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri I Reixac 10-12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Carles Prado-Morales
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri I Reixac 10-12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Daniel Sánchez-deAlcázar
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri I Reixac 10-12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Samuel Sánchez
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri I Reixac 10-12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain.
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Psg. Lluís Companys, 23, 08010, Barcelona, Spain
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13
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Wu B, Rivas DP, Das S. Upstream mobility and swarming of light activated micromotors. MATERIALS ADVANCES 2024; 5:1875-1879. [PMID: 38444934 PMCID: PMC10911229 DOI: 10.1039/d3ma00814b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Micromotors have been proposed for applications such as targeted drug delivery, thrombolysis, or sensing. However, single micrormotors are limited in the amount of payload they can deliver or force they can exert. Swarms of micromotors can overcome many of these challenges, however creating and controlling such swarms presents many challenges of its own. In particular, utilizing swarms in fluid flows is of significant importance for biomedical or lab-on-chip applications. Here, the upstream mobility and swarm formation of light driven micromotors in microchannel flows is demonstrated with maximum speeds around 0.1 mm s-1. Additionally, the light actuated microrobots operate in fairly low concentrations of hydrogen peroxide of approximately 1%. The micromotors form swarms at the boundary of the locally applied light pattern and the swarms can be moved by translating the light up or downstream.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingzhi Wu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Delaware 210 South College Ave Newark DE 19716 USA
| | - David P Rivas
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Delaware 210 South College Ave Newark DE 19716 USA
| | - Sambeeta Das
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Delaware 210 South College Ave Newark DE 19716 USA
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14
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den Hoed FM, Carlotti M, Palagi S, Raffa P, Mattoli V. Evolution of the Microrobots: Stimuli-Responsive Materials and Additive Manufacturing Technologies Turn Small Structures into Microscale Robots. MICROMACHINES 2024; 15:275. [PMID: 38399003 PMCID: PMC10893381 DOI: 10.3390/mi15020275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
The development of functional microsystems and microrobots that have characterized the last decade is the result of a synergistic and effective interaction between the progress of fabrication techniques and the increased availability of smart and responsive materials to be employed in the latter. Functional structures on the microscale have been relevant for a vast plethora of technologies that find application in different sectors including automotive, sensing devices, and consumer electronics, but are now also entering medical clinics. Working on or inside the human body requires increasing complexity and functionality on an ever-smaller scale, which is becoming possible as a result of emerging technology and smart materials over the past decades. In recent years, additive manufacturing has risen to the forefront of this evolution as the most prominent method to fabricate complex 3D structures. In this review, we discuss the rapid 3D manufacturing techniques that have emerged and how they have enabled a great leap in microrobotic applications. The arrival of smart materials with inherent functionalities has propelled microrobots to great complexity and complex applications. We focus on which materials are important for actuation and what the possibilities are for supplying the required energy. Furthermore, we provide an updated view of a new generation of microrobots in terms of both materials and fabrication technology. While two-photon lithography may be the state-of-the-art technology at the moment, in terms of resolution and design freedom, new methods such as two-step are on the horizon. In the more distant future, innovations like molecular motors could make microscale robots redundant and bring about nanofabrication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Marco den Hoed
- Center for Materials Interfaces, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via R. Piaggio 34, 56025 Pontedera, Italy;
- Smart and Sustainable Polymeric Products, Engineering and Technology Institute Groningen (ENTEG), University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands;
| | - Marco Carlotti
- Center for Materials Interfaces, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via R. Piaggio 34, 56025 Pontedera, Italy;
- Dipartimento di Chimica e Chimica Industriale, University of Pisa, Via Moruzzi 13, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefano Palagi
- BioRobotics Institute, Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies, P.zza Martiri della Libertà 33, 56127 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Patrizio Raffa
- Smart and Sustainable Polymeric Products, Engineering and Technology Institute Groningen (ENTEG), University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands;
| | - Virgilio Mattoli
- Center for Materials Interfaces, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via R. Piaggio 34, 56025 Pontedera, Italy;
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15
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Zhou H, Ouyang W, Zou S, Xu S. The Control of the Expansion or Compression of Colloidal Crystals Lattice with Salt Solution. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 14:355. [PMID: 38392728 PMCID: PMC10893356 DOI: 10.3390/nano14040355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Tuning the lattice spacing or stop bands holds great significance in the design and application of materials with colloidal crystals. Typically, particle surface modifications or the application of external physical fields are needed. In this study, we demonstrated the ability to expand or compress the lattice of colloidal crystals simply by utilizing a salt solution, without the need for any special treatments to the colloidal particles. We found that by only considering the diffusiophoresis effect we cannot explain the reversion of lattice expansion to lattice compression with the increase in the salt concentration and that the diffusioosmotic flow originating from the container wall must be taken into account. Further analysis revealed that variations in the salt concentration altered the relative amplitudes between diffusiophoresis and diffusioosmosis through changing the zeta potentials of the particles and the wall, and the competition between the particle diffusiophoresis and wall diffusioosmosis lay at the center of the underlying mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongwei Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Microgravity, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China; (H.Z.); (W.O.); (S.Z.)
| | - Wenze Ouyang
- Key Laboratory of Microgravity, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China; (H.Z.); (W.O.); (S.Z.)
| | - Shuangyang Zou
- Key Laboratory of Microgravity, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China; (H.Z.); (W.O.); (S.Z.)
| | - Shenghua Xu
- Key Laboratory of Microgravity, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China; (H.Z.); (W.O.); (S.Z.)
- School of Engineering Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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16
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Yu N, Shah ZH, Yang M, Gao Y. Morphology-Tailored Dynamic State Transition in Active-Passive Colloidal Assemblies. RESEARCH (WASHINGTON, D.C.) 2024; 7:0304. [PMID: 38269028 PMCID: PMC10807723 DOI: 10.34133/research.0304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Mixtures of active self-propelled and passive colloidal particles promise rich assembly and dynamic states that are beyond reach via equilibrium routes. Yet, controllable transition between different dynamic states remains rare. Here, we reveal a plethora of dynamic behaviors emerging in assemblies of chemically propelled snowman-like active colloids and passive spherical particles as the particle shape, size, and composition are tuned. For example, assembles of one or more active colloids with one passive particle exhibit distinct translating or orbiting states while those composed of one active colloid with 2 passive particles display persistent "8"-like cyclic motion or hopping between circling states around one passive particle in the plane and around the waist of 2 passive ones out of the plane, controlled by the shape of the active colloid and the size of the passive particles, respectively. These morphology-tailored dynamic transitions are in excellent agreement with state diagrams predicted by mesoscale dynamics simulations. Our work discloses new dynamic states and corresponding transition strategies, which promise new applications of active systems such as micromachines with functions that are otherwise impossible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Yu
- Institute for Advanced Study,
Shenzhen University, 518060, Shenzhen, China
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Device and Systems of Ministry of Education and Guangdong Province, College of Optoelectronic Engineering,
Shenzhen University, 518060, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zameer H. Shah
- Institute for Advanced Study,
Shenzhen University, 518060, Shenzhen, China
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Device and Systems of Ministry of Education and Guangdong Province, College of Optoelectronic Engineering,
Shenzhen University, 518060, Shenzhen, China
| | - Mingcheng Yang
- Beijing National Laboratory for Condensed Matter Physics and Laboratory of Soft Matter Physics, Institute of Physics,
Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Physical Sciences,
University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Songshan Lake Materials Laboratory, Dongguan, Guangdong 523808, China
| | - Yongxiang Gao
- Institute for Advanced Study,
Shenzhen University, 518060, Shenzhen, China
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17
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Huang H, Yang S, Ying Y, Chen X, Puigmartí-Luis J, Zhang L, Pané S. 3D Motion Manipulation for Micro- and Nanomachines: Progress and Future Directions. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2305925. [PMID: 37801654 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202305925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
In the past decade, micro- and nanomachines (MNMs) have made outstanding achievements in the fields of targeted drug delivery, tumor therapy, microsurgery, biological detection, and environmental monitoring and remediation. Researchers have made significant efforts to accelerate the rapid development of MNMs capable of moving through fluids by means of different energy sources (chemical reactions, ultrasound, light, electricity, magnetism, heat, or their combinations). However, the motion of MNMs is primarily investigated in confined two-dimensional (2D) horizontal setups. Furthermore, three-dimensional (3D) motion control remains challenging, especially for vertical movement and control, significantly limiting its potential applications in cargo transportation, environmental remediation, and biotherapy. Hence, an urgent need is to develop MNMs that can overcome self-gravity and controllably move in 3D spaces. This review delves into the latest progress made in MNMs with 3D motion capabilities under different manipulation approaches, discusses the underlying motion mechanisms, explores potential design concepts inspired by nature for controllable 3D motion in MNMs, and presents the available 3D observation and tracking systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai Huang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Shihao Yang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Yulong Ying
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Xiangzhong Chen
- Institute of Optoelectronics, State Key Laboratory of Photovoltaic Science and Technology, Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Base of Intelligent Optoelectronics and Perception, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Josep Puigmartí-Luis
- Departament de Ciència dels Materials i Química Física, Institut de Química Teòrica i Computacional, University of Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, 08028, Spain
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Pg. Lluís Companys 23, Barcelona, 08010, Spain
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Salvador Pané
- Multi-Scale Robotics Lab, Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems, ETH Zürich, Tannenstrasse 3, Zürich, CH-8092, Switzerland
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18
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Zhang T, Lyu D, Xu W, Feng X, Ni R, Wang Y. Janus particles with tunable patch symmetry and their assembly into chiral colloidal clusters. Nat Commun 2023; 14:8494. [PMID: 38129397 PMCID: PMC10739893 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44154-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Janus particles, which have an attractive patch on the otherwise repulsive surface, have been commonly employed for anisotropic colloidal assembly. While current methods of particle synthesis allow for control over the patch size, they are generally limited to producing dome-shaped patches with a high symmetry (C∞). Here, we report on the synthesis of Janus particles with patches of various tunable shapes, having reduced symmetries ranging from C2v to C3v and C4v. The Janus particles are synthesized by partial encapsulation of an octahedral metal-organic framework particle (UiO-66) in a polymer matrix. The extent of encapsulation is precisely regulated by a stepwise, asymmetric dewetting process that exposes selected facets of the UiO-66 particle. With depletion interaction, the Janus particles spontaneously assemble into colloidal clusters reflecting the particles' shapes and patch symmetries. We observe the formation of chiral structures, whereby chirality emerges from achiral building blocks. With the ability to encode symmetry and directional bonding information, our strategy could give access to more complex colloidal superstructures through assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianran Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Dengping Lyu
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wei Xu
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xuan Feng
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ran Ni
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Yufeng Wang
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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19
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McNeill J, Mallouk TE. Acoustically Powered Nano- and Microswimmers: From Individual to Collective Behavior. ACS NANOSCIENCE AU 2023; 3:424-440. [PMID: 38144701 PMCID: PMC10740144 DOI: 10.1021/acsnanoscienceau.3c00038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Micro- and nanoscopic particles that swim autonomously and self-assemble under the influence of chemical fuels and external fields show promise for realizing systems capable of carrying out large-scale, predetermined tasks. Different behaviors can be realized by tuning swimmer interactions at the individual level in a manner analogous to the emergent collective behavior of bacteria and mammalian cells. However, the limited toolbox of weak forces with which to drive these systems has made it difficult to achieve useful collective functions. Here, we review recent research on driving swimming and particle self-organization using acoustic fields, which offers capabilities complementary to those of the other methods used to power microswimmers. With either chemical or acoustic propulsion (or a combination of the two), understanding individual swimming mechanisms and the forces that arise between individual particles is a prerequisite to harnessing their interactions to realize collective phenomena and macroscopic functionality. We discuss here the ingredients necessary to drive the motion of microscopic particles using ultrasound, the theory that describes that behavior, and the gaps in our understanding. We then cover the combination of acoustically powered systems with other cross-compatible driving forces and the use of ultrasound in generating collective behavior. Finally, we highlight the demonstrated applications of acoustically powered microswimmers, and we offer a perspective on the state of the field, open questions, and opportunities. We hope that this review will serve as a guide to students beginning their work in this area and motivate others to consider research in microswimmers and acoustic fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey
M. McNeill
- Department of Chemistry, University
of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Thomas E. Mallouk
- Department of Chemistry, University
of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
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20
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Wang W. Open Questions of Chemically Powered Nano- and Micromotors. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:27185-27197. [PMID: 38063192 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c09223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Chemically powered nano- and micromotors are microscopic devices that convert chemical energy into motion. Interest in these motors has grown over the past 20 years because they exhibit interesting collective behaviors and have found potential uses in biomedical and environmental applications. Understanding how these motors operate both individually and collectively and how environments affect their operation is of both fundamental and applied significance. However, there are still significant gaps in our knowledge. This Perspective highlights several open questions regarding the propulsion mechanisms of, interactions among, and impact of confinements on nano- and micromotors driven by self-generated chemical gradients. These questions are based on my own experience as an experimentalist. For each open question, I describe the problem and its significance, analyze the status-quo, identify the bottleneck problem, and propose potential solutions. An underlying theme for these questions is the interplay among reaction kinetics, physicochemical distributions, and fluid flows. Unraveling this interplay requires careful measurements as well as a close collaboration between experimentalists and theoreticians/numerical experts. The interdisciplinary nature of these challenges suggests that their solutions could bring new revelations and opportunities across disciplines such as colloidal sciences, material sciences, soft matter physics, robotics, and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China, 518055
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21
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Yu N, Shah ZH, Basharat M, Wang S, Zhou X, Lin G, Edwards SA, Yang M, Gao Y. Active self-assembly of colloidal machines with passive rotational parts via coordination of phoresis and osmosis. SOFT MATTER 2023. [PMID: 38044703 DOI: 10.1039/d3sm01451g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
The organization of microscopic objects into specific structures with movable parts is a prerequisite for building sophisticated micromachines with complex functions, as exemplified by their macroscopic counterparts. Here we report the self-assembly of active and passive colloids into micromachinery with passive rotational parts. Depending on the attachment of the active colloid to a substrate, which varies the degrees of free freedom of the assembly, colloidal machines with rich internal rotational dynamics are realized. Energetic analysis reveals that the energy efficiency increases with the degrees of freedom of the machine. The experimental results can be rationalized by the cooperation of phoretic interaction and osmotic flow encoded in the shape of the active colloid, which site-specifically binds and exerts a torque to passive colloids, supported by finite element calculations and mesoscale simulations. Our work offers a new design principle that utilizes nonequilibrium interfacial phenomena for spontaneous construction of multiple-component reconfigurable micromachinery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Yu
- Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, 518060, Shenzhen, China.
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Device and Systems of Ministry of Education and Guangdong Provice, College of Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, 518060, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zameer Hussain Shah
- Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, 518060, Shenzhen, China.
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Device and Systems of Ministry of Education and Guangdong Provice, College of Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, 518060, Shenzhen, China
| | - Majid Basharat
- Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, 518060, Shenzhen, China.
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Device and Systems of Ministry of Education and Guangdong Provice, College of Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, 518060, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shuo Wang
- Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, 518060, Shenzhen, China.
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Device and Systems of Ministry of Education and Guangdong Provice, College of Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, 518060, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xuemao Zhou
- Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, 518060, Shenzhen, China.
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Device and Systems of Ministry of Education and Guangdong Provice, College of Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, 518060, Shenzhen, China
| | - Guanhua Lin
- Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, 518060, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Scott A Edwards
- Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, 518060, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Mingcheng Yang
- Beijing National Laboratory for Condensed Matter Physics and Laboratory of Soft Matter Physics, Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China.
- School of Physical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Songshan Lake Materials Laboratory, Dongguan, Guangdong 523808, China
| | - Yongxiang Gao
- Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, 518060, Shenzhen, China.
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22
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Debata S, Panda SK, Trivedi S, Uspal W, Singh DP. pH-Responsive swimming behavior of light-powered rod-shaped micromotors. NANOSCALE 2023; 15:17534-17543. [PMID: 37870073 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr03775d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Micromotors have emerged as promising devices for a wide range of applications e.g., microfluidics, lab-on-a-chip devices, active matter, environmental monitoring, etc. The control over the activity of micromotors with the ability to exhibit multimode swimming is one of the most desirable features for many of the applications. Here, we demonstrate a rod-shaped light-driven micromotor whose activity and swimming behavior can easily be controlled. The rod-shaped micromotors are fabricated through the dynamic shadowing growth (DSG) technique, where a 2 μm long arm of titanium dioxide (TiO2) is grown over spherical silica (SiO2) particles (1 μm diameter). Under low-intensity UV light exposure, the micromotors exhibit self-propulsion in an aqueous peroxide medium. When activated, the swimming behavior of micromotors greatly depends on the pH of the medium. The swimming direction, i.e., forward or backward movement, as well as swimming modes like translational or rotational motion, can be controlled by changing the pH values. The observed dynamics has been rationalized using a theoretical model incorporating chemical activity, hydrodynamic flow, and the effect of gravity for a rod-shaped active particle near a planar wall. The pH-dependent translational and rotational dynamics of micromotors provide a versatile platform for achieving controlled and responsive behaviors. Continued research and development in this area hold great promise for advancing micromotors and enabling novel applications in microfluidics, micromachining, environmental sciences, and biomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srikanta Debata
- Department of Physics, IIT Bhilai, Kutelabhata, Durg, Chhattisgarh, 491001, India.
| | - Suvendu Kumar Panda
- Department of Physics, IIT Bhilai, Kutelabhata, Durg, Chhattisgarh, 491001, India.
| | - Satyaprakash Trivedi
- Department of Physics, IIT Bhilai, Kutelabhata, Durg, Chhattisgarh, 491001, India.
| | - William Uspal
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, 2540 Dole Street, Holmes Hall 302, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA.
| | - Dhruv Pratap Singh
- Department of Physics, IIT Bhilai, Kutelabhata, Durg, Chhattisgarh, 491001, India.
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23
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Urso M, Ussia M, Peng X, Oral CM, Pumera M. Reconfigurable self-assembly of photocatalytic magnetic microrobots for water purification. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6969. [PMID: 37914692 PMCID: PMC10620202 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42674-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of artificial small-scale robotic swarms with nature-mimicking collective behaviors represents the frontier of research in robotics. While microrobot swarming under magnetic manipulation has been extensively explored, light-induced self-organization of micro- and nanorobots is still challenging. This study demonstrates the interaction-controlled, reconfigurable, reversible, and active self-assembly of TiO2/α-Fe2O3 microrobots, consisting of peanut-shaped α-Fe2O3 (hematite) microparticles synthesized by a hydrothermal method and covered with a thin layer of TiO2 by atomic layer deposition (ALD). Due to their photocatalytic and ferromagnetic properties, microrobots autonomously move in water under light irradiation, while a magnetic field precisely controls their direction. In the presence of H2O2 fuel, concentration gradients around the illuminated microrobots result in mutual attraction by phoretic interactions, inducing their spontaneous organization into self-propelled clusters. In the dark, clusters reversibly reconfigure into microchains where microrobots are aligned due to magnetic dipole-dipole interactions. Microrobots' active motion and photocatalytic properties were investigated for water remediation from pesticides, obtaining the rapid degradation of the extensively used, persistent, and hazardous herbicide 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4D). This study potentially impacts the realization of future intelligent adaptive metamachines and the application of light-powered self-propelled micro- and nanomotors toward the degradation of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) or micro- and nanoplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Urso
- Future Energy and Innovation Laboratory, Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkyňova 123, 61200, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Martina Ussia
- Future Energy and Innovation Laboratory, Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkyňova 123, 61200, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Xia Peng
- Future Energy and Innovation Laboratory, Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkyňova 123, 61200, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Cagatay M Oral
- Future Energy and Innovation Laboratory, Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkyňova 123, 61200, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Pumera
- Future Energy and Innovation Laboratory, Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkyňova 123, 61200, Brno, Czech Republic.
- Advanced Nanorobots & Multiscale Robotics Laboratory, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB-Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, 70800, Ostrava, Czech Republic.
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Hsueh-Shih Road 91, 40402, Taichung, Taiwan.
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, Yonsei-ro 50, Seodaemun-gu, 03722, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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24
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Liang Z, Joh H, Lian B, Fan DE. Light-stimulated micromotor swarms in an electric field with accurate spatial, temporal, and mode control. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadi9932. [PMID: 37878697 PMCID: PMC10599615 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adi9932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Swarming, a phenomenon widely present in nature, is a hallmark of nonequilibrium living systems that harness external energy into collective locomotion. The creation and study of manmade swarms may provide insights into their biological counterparts and shed light to the rules of life. Here, we propose an innovative mechanism for rationally creating multimodal swarms with unprecedented spatial, temporal, and mode control. The research is realized in a system made of optoelectric semiconductor nanorods that can rapidly morph into three distinct modes, i.e., network formation, collectively enhanced rotation, and droplet-like clustering, pattern, and switch in-between under light stimulation in an electric field. Theoretical analysis and semiquantitative modeling well explain the observation by understanding the competition between two countering effects: the electrostatic assembly for orderliness and electrospinning-induced disassembly for disorderliness. This work could inspire the rational creation of new classes of reconfigurable swarms for both fundamental research and emerging applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zexi Liang
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, Texas Materials Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Hyungmok Joh
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, Texas Materials Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Bin Lian
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, Texas Materials Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Donglei Emma Fan
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, Texas Materials Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
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25
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Chattopadhyay P, Ariza-Tarazona MC, Cedillo-González EI, Siligardi C, Simmchen J. Combining photocatalytic collection and degradation of microplastics using self-asymmetric Pac-Man TiO 2. NANOSCALE 2023; 15:14774-14781. [PMID: 37465854 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr01512b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are a significant environmental threat and the lack of efficient removal techniques further amplifies this crisis. Photocatalytic semiconducting nanoparticles have the potential to degrade micropollutants, among them microplastics. The hydrodynamic effects leading to the propulsion of micromotors can lead to the accumulation of microplastics in close vicinity of the micromotor. Incorporating these different properties into a single photocatalytic micromotor (self-propulsion, phoretic assembly of passive colloids and photocatalytic oxidation of contaminants), we achieve a highly scalable, inherently-asymmetric Pac-Man TiO2 micromotor with the ability to actively collect and degrade microplastics. The target microplastics are homogeneous polystyrene microspheres (PS) to facilitate the optical degradation measurements. We cross-correlate the degradation with catalytic activity studies and critically evaluate the timescales required for all involved processes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Camila Ariza-Tarazona
- Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari", University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Vivarelli 10/1, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Erika Iveth Cedillo-González
- Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari", University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Vivarelli 10/1, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Cristina Siligardi
- Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari", University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Vivarelli 10/1, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Juliane Simmchen
- Chair of Physical Chemistry, TU Dresden, Zellescher Weg 19, Dresden, Germany.
- Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G1 1BX, UK
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26
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Gao R, Beladi-Mousavi SM, Salinas G, Garrigue P, Zhang L, Kuhn A. Spatial Precision Tailoring the Catalytic Activity of Graphene Monolayers for Designing Janus Swimmers. NANO LETTERS 2023; 23:8180-8185. [PMID: 37642420 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.3c02314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Graphene monolayers have interesting applications in many fields due to their intrinsic physicochemical properties, especially when they can be postmodified with high precision. Herein, we describe the highly site-selective functionalization of freestanding graphene monolayers with platinum (Pt) clusters by bipolar electrochemistry. The deposition of such metal spots leads to catalytically active hybrid two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials. Their catalytic functionality is illustrated by the spatially controlled decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, inducing motion at the water/air interface due to oxygen bubble evolution. A series of such 2D Janus structures with Pt deposition at predefined positions (corners and edges) is studied with respect to the generation of autonomous motion. The type and speed of motion can be fine-tuned by controlling the deposition time and location of the Pt clusters. These proof-of-principle experiments indicate that this type of hybrid 2D object opens up interesting perspectives in terms of applications, such as environmental detection or remediation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruchao Gao
- Engineering Research Center for Nanomaterials, Henan University, 475000 Kaifeng, China
- University of Bordeaux, CNRS, Bordeaux INP, ISM, UMR 5255, 33607 Pessac, France
| | | | - Gerardo Salinas
- University of Bordeaux, CNRS, Bordeaux INP, ISM, UMR 5255, 33607 Pessac, France
| | - Patrick Garrigue
- University of Bordeaux, CNRS, Bordeaux INP, ISM, UMR 5255, 33607 Pessac, France
| | - Lin Zhang
- Engineering Research Center for Nanomaterials, Henan University, 475000 Kaifeng, China
| | - Alexander Kuhn
- Engineering Research Center for Nanomaterials, Henan University, 475000 Kaifeng, China
- University of Bordeaux, CNRS, Bordeaux INP, ISM, UMR 5255, 33607 Pessac, France
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27
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Zhang H, Feng X, Xia X, Zhu J, Wang H, Ni R, Zhang Z. Shape-Dictated Self-Assembly of Photoresponsive Hybrid Colloids. SMALL METHODS 2023; 7:e2300383. [PMID: 37183306 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202300383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
The shape-dictated self-assembly of hybrid colloids induced by chemical concentration gradients generated by photocatalytic reactions of the colloids is studied. Different shapes enable the formation of assemblies with distinct lattice structures including hexagons, distorted hexagons, and squares, which are corroborated by computer simulations. Furthermore, assemblies change from lattices to chains when increasing the attraction between the colloids. The results show that photoresponsive hybrid colloids possess a unique capability for shape-dependent self-assembly, offering a practical and versatile approach to manipulate self-assembly at the microscale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyang Zhang
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Xuan Feng
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 637459, Singapore
| | - Xiuyang Xia
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 637459, Singapore
| | - Jiao Zhu
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Huaguang Wang
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Ran Ni
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 637459, Singapore
| | - Zexin Zhang
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
- Institute for Advanced Study, Center for Soft Condensed Matter Physics and Interdisciplinary Research, School of Physical Science and Technology, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, China
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28
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Narayanan T, Chèvremont W, Zinn T. Small-angle X-ray scattering in the era of fourth-generation light sources. J Appl Crystallogr 2023; 56:939-946. [PMID: 37555224 PMCID: PMC10405582 DOI: 10.1107/s1600576723004971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, fourth-generation synchrotron sources with several orders of magnitude higher brightness and higher degree of coherence compared with third-generation sources have come into operation. These new X-ray sources offer exciting opportunities for the investigation of soft matter and biological specimens by small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and related scattering methods. The improved beam properties together with the advanced pixel array detectors readily enhance the angular resolution of SAXS and ultra-small-angle X-ray scattering in the pinhole collimation. The high degree of coherence is a major boost for the X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy (XPCS) technique, enabling the equilibrium dynamics to be probed over broader time and length scales. This article presents some representative examples illustrating the performance of SAXS and XPCS with the Extremely Brilliant Source at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility. The rapid onset of radiation damage is a significant challenge with the vast majority of samples, and appropriate protocols need to be adopted for circumventing this problem.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Thomas Zinn
- ESRF – The European Synchrotron, 38043 Grenoble, France
- Diamond Light Source, Didcot OX11 0DE, United Kingdom
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29
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Rivas DP, Sokolich M, Das S. Spatial Patterning of Micromotor Aggregation and Flux. CHEMNANOMAT : CHEMISTRY OF NANOMATERIALS FOR ENERGY, BIOLOGY AND MORE 2023; 9:e202300225. [PMID: 38292294 PMCID: PMC10827321 DOI: 10.1002/cnma.202300225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Using a spatially varying light pattern with light activated semi-conductor based magnetic TiO2 micromotors, we study the difference in micromotor flux between illuminated and non-illuminated regions in the presence and absence of an applied magnetic field. We find that the magnetic field enhances the flux of the motors which we attribute to a straightening of the micromotor trajectories which decreases the time they spend in the illuminated region. We also demonstrate spatially patterned light-induced aggregation of the micromotors and study its time evolution at various micromotor concentrations. Although light induced aggregation has been observed previously, spatial patterning of aggregation demonstrates a further means of control which could be relevant to swarm control or self-assembly applications. Overall, these results draw attention to the effect of trajectory shape on the flux of active colloids as well as the concentration dependence of aggregation and its time dependence within a spatially patterned region, which is not only pertinent to self-assembly and swarm control, but also provides insight into the behavior of active matter systems with spatially varying activity levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- David P Rivas
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Delaware, 130 Academy Street, Newark, DE 19716
| | - Max Sokolich
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Delaware, 130 Academy Street, Newark, DE 19716
| | - Sambeeta Das
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Delaware, 130 Academy Street, Newark, DE 19716
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30
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Wei M, Ben Zion MY, Dauchot O. Reconfiguration, Interrupted Aging, and Enhanced Dynamics of a Colloidal Gel Using Photoswitchable Active Doping. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2023; 131:018301. [PMID: 37478452 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.131.018301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
We study quasi-2D gels made of a colloidal network doped with Janus particles activated by light. Following the gel formation, we monitor both the structure and dynamics before, during, and after the activation period. Before activity is switched on, the gel is slowly aging. During the activation, the mobility of the passive particles exhibits a characteristic scale-dependent response, while the colloidal network remains connected, and the gel maintains its structural integrity. Once activity is switched off, the gel stops aging and keeps the memory of the structure inherited from the active phase. Remarkably, the motility remains larger than that of the gel, before the active period. The system has turned into a genuinely softer gel, with frozen dynamics, but with more space for thermal fluctuations. The above conclusions remain valid long after the activity period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengshi Wei
- Gulliver UMR CNRS 7083, ESPCI Paris, PSL Research University, 10 rue Vauquelin, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Matan Yah Ben Zion
- School of Physics and Astronomy, and the Center for Physics and Chemistry of Living Systems, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Olivier Dauchot
- Gulliver UMR CNRS 7083, ESPCI Paris, PSL Research University, 10 rue Vauquelin, 75005 Paris, France
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31
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Wang Q, Jin D. Active Micro/Nanoparticles in Colloidal Microswarms. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:1687. [PMID: 37242103 PMCID: PMC10220621 DOI: 10.3390/nano13101687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Colloidal microswarms have attracted increasing attention in the last decade due to their unique capabilities in various complex tasks. Thousands or even millions of tiny active agents are gathered with distinctive features and emerging behaviors, demonstrating fascinating equilibrium and non-equilibrium collective states. In recent studies, with the development of materials design, remote control strategies, and the understanding of pair interactions between building blocks, microswarms have shown advantages in manipulation and targeted delivery tasks with high adaptability and on-demand pattern transformation. This review focuses on the recent progress in active micro/nanoparticles (MNPs) in colloidal microswarms under the input of an external field, including the response of MNPs to external fields, MNP-MNP interactions, and MNP-environment interactions. A fundamental understanding of how building blocks behave in a collective system provides the foundation for designing microswarm systems with autonomy and intelligence, aiming for practical application in diverse environments. It is envisioned that colloidal microswarms will significantly impact active delivery and manipulation applications on small scales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Design and Manufacture of Micro-Nano Biomedical Instruments, School of Mechanical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211000, China
| | - Dongdong Jin
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518000, China
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32
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Rey M, Volpe G, Volpe G. Light, Matter, Action: Shining Light on Active Matter. ACS PHOTONICS 2023; 10:1188-1201. [PMID: 37215318 PMCID: PMC10197137 DOI: 10.1021/acsphotonics.3c00140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Light carries energy and momentum. It can therefore alter the motion of objects on the atomic to astronomical scales. Being widely available, readily controllable, and broadly biocompatible, light is also an ideal tool to propel microscopic particles, drive them out of thermodynamic equilibrium, and make them active. Thus, light-driven particles have become a recent focus of research in the field of soft active matter. In this Perspective, we discuss recent advances in the control of soft active matter with light, which has mainly been achieved using light intensity. We also highlight some first attempts to utilize light's additional properties, such as its wavelength, polarization, and momentum. We then argue that fully exploiting light with all of its properties will play a critical role in increasing the level of control over the actuation of active matter as well as the flow of light itself through it. This enabling step will advance the design of soft active matter systems, their functionalities, and their transfer toward technological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcel Rey
- Physics
Department, University of Gothenburg, 41296 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Giovanni Volpe
- Physics
Department, University of Gothenburg, 41296 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Giorgio Volpe
- Department
of Chemistry, University College London, 20 Gordon Street, WC1H 0AJ London, United Kingdom
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33
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Zheng J, Chen J, Jin Y, Wen Y, Mu Y, Wu C, Wang Y, Tong P, Li Z, Hou X, Tang J. Photochromism from wavelength-selective colloidal phase segregation. Nature 2023; 617:499-506. [PMID: 37198311 PMCID: PMC10191859 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-05873-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Phase segregation is ubiquitously observed in immiscible mixtures, such as oil and water, in which the mixing entropy is overcome by the segregation enthalpy1-3. In monodispersed colloidal systems, however, the colloidal-colloidal interactions are usually non-specific and short-ranged, which leads to negligible segregation enthalpy4. The recently developed photoactive colloidal particles show long-range phoretic interactions, which can be readily tuned with incident light, suggesting an ideal model for studying phase behaviour and structure evolution kinetics5,6. In this work, we design a simple spectral selective active colloidal system, in which TiO2 colloidal species were coded with spectral distinctive dyes to form a photochromic colloidal swarm. In this system, the particle-particle interactions can be programmed by combining incident light with various wavelengths and intensities to enable controllable colloidal gelation and segregation. Furthermore, by mixing the cyan, magenta and yellow colloids, a dynamic photochromic colloidal swarm is formulated. On illumination of coloured light, the colloidal swarm adapts the appearance of incident light due to layered phase segregation, presenting a facile approach towards coloured electronic paper and self-powered optical camouflage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jingyuan Chen
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yakang Jin
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong, China
- School of Physics, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan Wen
- Department of Physics, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yijiang Mu
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
| | - Changjin Wu
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yufeng Wang
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
| | - Penger Tong
- Department of Physics, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhigang Li
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xu Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Department of Physics, Research Institute for Biomimetics and Soft Matter, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Soft Functional Materials Research, Jiujiang Research Institute, College of Physical Science and Technology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), Xiamen, China
| | - Jinyao Tang
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Synthetic Chemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
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Tkachenko G, Truong VG, Esporlas CL, Sanskriti I, Nic Chormaic S. Evanescent field trapping and propulsion of Janus particles along optical nanofibers. Nat Commun 2023; 14:1691. [PMID: 36973283 PMCID: PMC10043011 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37448-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Small composite objects, known as Janus particles, drive sustained scientific interest primarily targeted at biomedical applications, where such objects act as micro- or nanoscale actuators, carriers, or imaging agents. A major practical challenge is to develop effective methods for the manipulation of Janus particles. The available long-range methods mostly rely on chemical reactions or thermal gradients, therefore having limited precision and strong dependency on the content and properties of the carrier fluid. To tackle these limitations, we propose the manipulation of Janus particles (here, silica microspheres half-coated with gold) by optical forces in the evanescent field of an optical nanofiber. We find that Janus particles exhibit strong transverse localization on the nanofiber and much faster propulsion compared to all-dielectric particles of the same size. These results establish the effectiveness of near-field geometries for optical manipulation of composite particles, where new waveguide-based or plasmonic solutions could be envisaged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgiy Tkachenko
- Light-Matter Interactions for Quantum Technologies Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, 1919-1 Tancha, Onna-son, 904-0495, Okinawa, Japan.
| | - Viet Giang Truong
- Light-Matter Interactions for Quantum Technologies Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, 1919-1 Tancha, Onna-son, 904-0495, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Cindy Liza Esporlas
- Light-Matter Interactions for Quantum Technologies Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, 1919-1 Tancha, Onna-son, 904-0495, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Isha Sanskriti
- Light-Matter Interactions for Quantum Technologies Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, 1919-1 Tancha, Onna-son, 904-0495, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Síle Nic Chormaic
- Light-Matter Interactions for Quantum Technologies Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, 1919-1 Tancha, Onna-son, 904-0495, Okinawa, Japan.
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35
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Shandilya E, Maiti S. Self-Regulatory Micro- and Macroscale Patterning of ATP-Mediated Nanobioconjugate. ACS NANO 2023; 17:5108-5120. [PMID: 36827433 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c00431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Directional interactions and the assembly of a nanobioconjugate in clusters at a specific location are important for patterning and microarrays in biomedical research. Herein, we report that self-assembly and spatial control in surface patterning of the surfactant-functionalized nanoparticles can be governed in micro- and macroscale environments by two factors, synergistic enzyme-substrate-nanoparticle affinity and the phoretic effect. First, we show that aggregation of cationic gold nanoparticles (GNP) can be modulated by multivalent anionic nanoparticle binding of an adenosine-based nucleotide and enzyme, alkaline phosphatase. We further demonstrate two different types of their autonomous aggregation pattern: (i) by introducing an enzyme gradient that modulates the synergistic nonequilibrium interactivity of the nanoparticle, nucleotide, and enzyme both in microfluidic conditions and at the macroscale; and (ii) the surface deposition pattern from evaporating droplets via the coffee ring effect. Here, temporal control over the width and site of the patterning area inside the microfluidic channel under catalytic and noncatalytic conditions has also been demonstrated. Finally, we show a change in capillary phoresis parameters responsible for the coffee ring due to introduction of ATP-loaded GNP in the blood serum, showing applicability in low-cost disease diagnostics. Overall, an enzyme-actuated surface nanobiopatterning method has been demonstrated that has potential application in controlled micro- and macroscale area patterning with a diverse cascade catalytic surface and spatiotemporal multisensory-based application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekta Shandilya
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali, Knowledge City, Manauli 140306, India
| | - Subhabrata Maiti
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali, Knowledge City, Manauli 140306, India
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36
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Saud KT, Solomon MJ. Microdynamics of active particles in defect-rich colloidal crystals. J Colloid Interface Sci 2023; 641:950-960. [PMID: 36989821 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2023.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
HYPOTHESIS Because they are self-propulsive, active colloidal particles can interact with their environment in ways that differ from passive, Brownian particles. Here, we explore how interactions in different microstructural regions may contribute to colloidal crystal annealing. EXPERIMENTS We investigate active particles propagating in a quasi-2D colloidal crystal monolayer produced by alternating current electric fields (active-to-passive particle ratio ∼ 1:720). The active particle is a platinum Janus sphere propelled by asymmetric decomposition of hydrogen peroxide. Crystals are characterized for changes in void properties. The mean-squared-displacement of Janus particles are measured to determine how active microdynamics depend on the local microstructure, which is comprised of void regions, void-adjacent regions (defined as within three particle diameters of a void), and interstitial regions. FINDINGS At active particle energy EA = 2.55 kBT, the average void size increases as much as three times and the average void anisotropy increases about 40% relative to the passive case. The average microdynamical enhancement, <δ(t)>, of Janus particles in the crystal relative to an equivalent passive Janus particle is reduced compared to that of a free, active particle (<δ(t) > is 1.88 ± 0.04 and 2.66 ± 0.08, respectively). The concentration of active particles is enriched in void and void-adjacent regions. Active particles exhibit the greatest change in dynamics relative to the passive control in void-adjacent regions (<δ(t)> = 2.58 ± 0.06). The results support the conjecture that active particle microdynamical enhancement in crystal lattices is affected by local defect structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keara T Saud
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States; Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Michael J Solomon
- Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States; Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.
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37
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Zbonikowski R, Mente P, Bończak B, Paczesny J. Adaptive 2D and Pseudo-2D Systems: Molecular, Polymeric, and Colloidal Building Blocks for Tailored Complexity. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:855. [PMID: 36903733 PMCID: PMC10005801 DOI: 10.3390/nano13050855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Two-dimensional and pseudo-2D systems come in various forms. Membranes separating protocells from the environment were necessary for life to occur. Later, compartmentalization allowed for the development of more complex cellular structures. Nowadays, 2D materials (e.g., graphene, molybdenum disulfide) are revolutionizing the smart materials industry. Surface engineering allows for novel functionalities, as only a limited number of bulk materials have the desired surface properties. This is realized via physical treatment (e.g., plasma treatment, rubbing), chemical modifications, thin film deposition (using both chemical and physical methods), doping and formulation of composites, or coating. However, artificial systems are usually static. Nature creates dynamic and responsive structures, which facilitates the formation of complex systems. The challenge of nanotechnology, physical chemistry, and materials science is to develop artificial adaptive systems. Dynamic 2D and pseudo-2D designs are needed for future developments of life-like materials and networked chemical systems in which the sequences of the stimuli would control the consecutive stages of the given process. This is crucial to achieving versatility, improved performance, energy efficiency, and sustainability. Here, we review the advancements in studies on adaptive, responsive, dynamic, and out-of-equilibrium 2D and pseudo-2D systems composed of molecules, polymers, and nano/microparticles.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jan Paczesny
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kasprzaka 44/52, 01-224 Warsaw, Poland
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Liu J, Wu Y, Li Y, Yang L, Wu H, He Q. Rotary biomolecular motor-powered supramolecular colloidal motor. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eabg3015. [PMID: 36812329 PMCID: PMC9946340 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abg3015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Cells orchestrate the motion and force of hundreds of protein motors to perform various mechanical tasks over multiple length scales. However, engineering active biomimetic materials from protein motors that consume energy to propel continuous motion of micrometer-sized assembling systems remains challenging. Here, we report rotary biomolecular motor-powered supramolecular (RBMS) colloidal motors that are hierarchically assembled from a purified chromatophore membrane containing FOF1-ATP synthase molecular motors, and an assembled polyelectrolyte microcapsule. The micro-sized RBMS motor with asymmetric distribution of FOF1-ATPases can autonomously move under light illumination and is collectively powered by hundreds of rotary biomolecular motors. The propulsive mechanism is that a transmembrane proton gradient generated by a photochemical reaction drives FOF1-ATPases to rotate for ATP biosynthesis, which creates a local chemical field for self-diffusiophoretic force. Such an active supramolecular architecture endowed with motility and biosynthesis offers a promising platform for intelligent colloidal motors resembling the propulsive units in swimming bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Liu
- School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, Yi Kuang Jie 2, Harbin 150080, China
| | - Yingjie Wu
- School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, Yi Kuang Jie 2, Harbin 150080, China
| | - Yue Li
- School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, Yi Kuang Jie 2, Harbin 150080, China
| | - Ling Yang
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Jinlian Street, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Hao Wu
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Jinlian Street, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Qiang He
- School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, Yi Kuang Jie 2, Harbin 150080, China
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Jinlian Street, Wenzhou 325000, China
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Ji F, Wu Y, Pumera M, Zhang L. Collective Behaviors of Active Matter Learning from Natural Taxes Across Scales. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2203959. [PMID: 35986637 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202203959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Taxis orientation is common in microorganisms, and it provides feasible strategies to operate active colloids as small-scale robots. Collective taxes involve numerous units that collectively perform taxis motion, whereby the collective cooperation between individuals enables the group to perform efficiently, adaptively, and robustly. Hence, analyzing and designing collectives is crucial for developing and advancing microswarm toward practical or clinical applications. In this review, natural taxis behaviors are categorized and synthetic microrobotic collectives are discussed as bio-inspired realizations, aiming at closing the gap between taxis strategies of living creatures and those of functional active microswarms. As collective behaviors emerge within a group, the global taxis to external stimuli guides the group to conduct overall tasks, whereas the local taxis between individuals induces synchronization and global patterns. By encoding the local orientations and programming the global stimuli, various paradigms can be introduced for coordinating and controlling such collective microrobots, from the viewpoints of fundamental science and practical applications. Therefore, by discussing the key points and difficulties associated with collective taxes of different paradigms, this review potentially offers insights into mimicking natural collective behaviors and constructing intelligent microrobotic systems for on-demand control and preassigned tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengtong Ji
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Yilin Wu
- Department of Physics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Martin Pumera
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava, 70800, Czech Republic
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Korea
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, 999077, China
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Wang L, Simmchen J. Determination of the swimming mechanism of Au@TiO 2 active matter and implications on active-passive interactions. SOFT MATTER 2023; 19:540-549. [PMID: 36541522 DOI: 10.1039/d2sm01097f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Non-equilibrium dynamic assembly attracts considerable attention due to the possibility of forming diverse structures that can potentially lead to functional materials. Despite significant progress in understanding and modelling, the complexity of the system implies that different phases of the assembly formation are governed by different interactions. It is clear that both, hydrodynamic and chemical interactions stem from the activity of the particle, but correlation to specific chemical species remains not yet understood. Here, we investigate the origin of the main driving forces for light-driven Au@TiO2 micromotors and look at the implication this causes for the interactions between active and passive particles. We develop precision experimental measurements of the photochemical reaction rate, which are correlated with the observed speed of Au@TiO2 micromotors. The comparison with two distinct models allows the conclusion that the dominant propulsion mechanism of the active particles is self-electrophoresis based on the self-generated H+ gradient. We verify this assumption by adding salt and confirm the dependence of the expected swimming behaviour on salt concentration and investigate the consequences for raft formation in COMSOL simulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linlin Wang
- Department of Physical Chemistry, TU Dresden, Zellescher Weg 19, 01069 Dresden, Germany.
| | - Juliane Simmchen
- Department of Physical Chemistry, TU Dresden, Zellescher Weg 19, 01069 Dresden, Germany.
- Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK.
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41
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Liu T, Xie L, Price CAH, Liu J, He Q, Kong B. Controlled propulsion of micro/nanomotors: operational mechanisms, motion manipulation and potential biomedical applications. Chem Soc Rev 2022; 51:10083-10119. [PMID: 36416191 DOI: 10.1039/d2cs00432a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Inspired by natural mobile microorganisms, researchers have developed micro/nanomotors (MNMs) that can autonomously move by transducing different kinds of energies into kinetic energy. The rapid development of MNMs has created tremendous opportunities for biomedical fields including diagnostics, therapeutics, and theranostics. Although the great progress has been made in MNM research, at a fundamental level, the accepted propulsion mechanisms are still a controversial matter. In practical applications such as precision nanomedicine, the precise control of the motion, including the speed and directionality, of MNMs is also important, which makes advanced motion manipulation desirable. Very recently, diverse MNMs with different propulsion strategies, morphologies, sizes, porosities and chemical structures have been fabricated and applied for various uses. Herein, we thoroughly summarize the physical principles behind propulsion strategies, as well as the recent advances in motion manipulation methods and relevant biomedical applications of these MNMs. The current challenges in MNM research are also discussed. We hope this review can provide a bird's eye overview of the MNM research and inspire researchers to create novel and more powerful MNMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyi Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Key Lab of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China. .,DICP-Surrey Joint Centre for Future Materials, Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7XH, UK.
| | - Lei Xie
- Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Key Lab of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China.
| | - Cameron-Alexander Hurd Price
- DICP-Surrey Joint Centre for Future Materials, Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7XH, UK.
| | - Jian Liu
- DICP-Surrey Joint Centre for Future Materials, Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7XH, UK. .,State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, Liaoning, China.,College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, 010021, PR China
| | - Qiang He
- Key Laboratory of Microsystems and Microstructures Manufacturing (Ministry of Education), Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China.
| | - Biao Kong
- Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Key Lab of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China. .,Yiwu Research Institute of Fudan University, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China
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42
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Volpe G, Bechinger C, Cichos F, Golestanian R, Löwen H, Sperl M, Volpe G. Active matter in space. NPJ Microgravity 2022; 8:54. [PMID: 36434006 PMCID: PMC9700843 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-022-00230-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last 20 years, active matter has been a highly dynamic field of research, bridging fundamental aspects of non-equilibrium thermodynamics with applications to biology, robotics, and nano-medicine. Active matter systems are composed of units that can harvest and harness energy and information from their environment to generate complex collective behaviours and forms of self-organisation. On Earth, gravity-driven phenomena (such as sedimentation and convection) often dominate or conceal the emergence of these dynamics, especially for soft active matter systems where typical interactions are of the order of the thermal energy. In this review, we explore the ongoing and future efforts to study active matter in space, where low-gravity and microgravity conditions can lift some of these limitations. We envision that these studies will help unify our understanding of active matter systems and, more generally, of far-from-equilibrium physics both on Earth and in space. Furthermore, they will also provide guidance on how to use, process and manufacture active materials for space exploration and colonisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Volpe
- Department of Chemistry, University College London, 20 Gordon Street, WC1H 0AJ, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Clemens Bechinger
- Physics Department, University of Konstanz, 78457, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Frank Cichos
- Peter Debye Institute for Soft Matter Physics, Faculty of Physics and Earth Sciences, Leipzig University, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ramin Golestanian
- Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization (MPI-DS), 37077, Göttingen, Germany
- Rudolf Peierls Centre for Theoretical Physics, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3PU, United Kingdom
| | - Hartmut Löwen
- Institut für Theoretische Physik II: Weiche Materie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Universitätsstrasse 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Matthias Sperl
- Institut für Materialphysik im Weltraum, Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt (DLR), 51170, Köln, Germany
| | - Giovanni Volpe
- Physics Department, University of Gothenburg, 41296, Gothenburg, Sweden
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43
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Law J, Chen H, Wang Y, Yu J, Sun Y. Gravity-resisting colloidal collectives. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eade3161. [PMID: 36399567 PMCID: PMC9674281 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.ade3161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Self-assembly of dynamic colloidal structures along the vertical direction has been challenging because of gravity and the complexity in controlling agent-agent interactions. Here, we present a strategy that enables the self-growing of gravity-resisting colloidal collectives. By designing a unique dual-axis oscillating magnetic field, time-varying interparticle interactions are induced to assemble magnetic particles against gravity into vertical collectives, with the structures continuing to grow until reaching dynamic equilibrium. The collectives have swarm behavior and are capable of height reconfiguration and adaptive locomotion, such as moving along a tilted substrate and under nonzero fluidic flow condition, gap and obstacle crossing, and stair climbing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junhui Law
- School of Science and Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Hui Chen
- School of Science and Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yibin Wang
- School of Science and Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jiangfan Yu
- School of Science and Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yu Sun
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Robotics Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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44
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Konara M, Mudugamuwa A, Dodampegama S, Roshan U, Amarasinghe R, Dao DV. Formation Techniques Used in Shape-Forming Microrobotic Systems with Multiple Microrobots: A Review. MICROMACHINES 2022; 13:1987. [PMID: 36422416 PMCID: PMC9699214 DOI: 10.3390/mi13111987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Multiple robots are used in robotic applications to achieve tasks that are impossible to perform as individual robotic modules. At the microscale/nanoscale, controlling multiple robots is difficult due to the limitations of fabrication technologies and the availability of on-board controllers. This highlights the requirement of different approaches compared to macro systems for a group of microrobotic systems. Current microrobotic systems have the capability to form different configurations, either as a collectively actuated swarm or a selectively actuated group of agents. Magnetic, acoustic, electric, optical, and hybrid methods are reviewed under collective formation methods, and surface anchoring, heterogeneous design, and non-uniform control input are significant in the selective formation of microrobotic systems. In addition, actuation principles play an important role in designing microrobotic systems with multiple microrobots, and the various control systems are also reviewed because they affect the development of such systems at the microscale. Reconfigurability, self-adaptable motion, and enhanced imaging due to the aggregation of modules have shown potential applications specifically in the biomedical sector. This review presents the current state of shape formation using microrobots with regard to forming techniques, actuation principles, and control systems. Finally, the future developments of these systems are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menaka Konara
- Centre for Advanced Mechatronics Systems, University of Moratuwa, Katubedda 10400, Sri Lanka
| | - Amith Mudugamuwa
- Centre for Advanced Mechatronics Systems, University of Moratuwa, Katubedda 10400, Sri Lanka
| | - Shanuka Dodampegama
- Centre for Advanced Mechatronics Systems, University of Moratuwa, Katubedda 10400, Sri Lanka
| | - Uditha Roshan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Moratuwa, Katubedda 10400, Sri Lanka
| | - Ranjith Amarasinghe
- Centre for Advanced Mechatronics Systems, University of Moratuwa, Katubedda 10400, Sri Lanka
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Moratuwa, Katubedda 10400, Sri Lanka
| | - Dzung Viet Dao
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre (QMNC), Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia
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45
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Li W, Wu C, Xiong Z, Liang C, Li Z, Liu B, Cao Q, Wang J, Tang J, Li D. Self-driven magnetorobots for recyclable and scalable micro/nanoplastic removal from nonmarine waters. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eade1731. [PMID: 36351008 PMCID: PMC9645706 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.ade1731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Micro/nanoplastic (MNP) contamination in nonmarine waters has evolved into a notable ecotoxicological threat to the global ecosystem. However, existing strategies for MNP removal are typically limited to chemical flocculation or physical filtering that often fails to decontaminate plastic particulates with ultrasmall sizes or ultralow concentrations. Here, we report a self-driven magnetorobot comprising magnetizable ion-exchange resin sphere that can be used to dynamically remove or separate MNPs from nonmarine waters. As a result of the long-range electrophoretic attraction established by recyclable ion-exchange resin, the magnetorobot shows sustainable removal efficiency of >90% over 100 treatment cycles, with verified broad applicability to varying plastic compositions, sizes, and shapes as well as nonmarine water samples. Our work may facilitate industry-scale MNP removal with affordable cost and minimal secondary pollution and suggests an appealing strategy based on self-propelled micro/nanorobots to sample and assess nanoplastics in aqueous environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanyuan Li
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional Supramolecular Coordination Materials and Applications, Jinan University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Changjin Wu
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, P. R. China
| | - Ze Xiong
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, P. R. China
| | - Chaowei Liang
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional Supramolecular Coordination Materials and Applications, Jinan University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Ziyi Li
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional Supramolecular Coordination Materials and Applications, Jinan University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Baiyao Liu
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional Supramolecular Coordination Materials and Applications, Jinan University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Qinyi Cao
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional Supramolecular Coordination Materials and Applications, Jinan University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Jizhuang Wang
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional Supramolecular Coordination Materials and Applications, Jinan University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Jinyao Tang
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, P. R. China
| | - Dan Li
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional Supramolecular Coordination Materials and Applications, Jinan University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
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46
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Dai B, Zhou Y, Xiao X, Chen Y, Guo J, Gao C, Xie Y, Chen J. Fluid Field Modulation in Mass Transfer for Efficient Photocatalysis. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2203057. [PMID: 35957518 PMCID: PMC9534979 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202203057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Mass transfer is an essential factor determining photocatalytic performance, which can be modulated by fluid field via manipulating the kinetic characteristics of photocatalysts and photocatalytic intermediates. Past decades have witnessed the efforts and achievements made in manipulating mass transfer based on photocatalyst structure and composition design, and thus, a critical survey that scrutinizes the recent progress in this topic is urgently necessitated. This review examines the basic principles of how mass transfer behavior impacts photocatalytic activity accompanying with the discussion on theoretical simulation calculation including fluid flow speed and pattern. Meanwhile, newly emerged viable photocatalytic micro/nanomotors with self-thermophoresis, self-diffusiophoresis, and bubble-propulsion mechanisms as well as magnet-actuated photocatalytic artificial cilia for facilitating mass transfer will be covered. Furthermore, their applications in photocatalytic hydrogen evolution, carbon dioxide reduction, organic pollution degradation, bacteria disinfection and so forth are scrutinized. Finally, a brief summary and future outlook are presented, providing a viable guideline to those working in photocatalysis, mass transfer, and other related fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoying Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Electronics and Information Displays & Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM)Jiangsu Key Laboratory for BiosensorsJiangsu National Synergetic Innovation Center for Advanced Materials (SICAM)Nanjing University of Posts and TelecommunicationsNanjing210023China
| | - Yihao Zhou
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of California, Los AngelesLos AngelesCA90095USA
| | - Xiao Xiao
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of California, Los AngelesLos AngelesCA90095USA
| | - Yukai Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Materials‐Oriented Chemical EngineeringCollege of Materials Science and EngineeringNanjing Tech UniversityNanjing210009China
| | - Jiahao Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Electronics and Information Displays & Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM)Jiangsu Key Laboratory for BiosensorsJiangsu National Synergetic Innovation Center for Advanced Materials (SICAM)Nanjing University of Posts and TelecommunicationsNanjing210023China
| | - Chenchen Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Electronics and Information Displays & Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM)Jiangsu Key Laboratory for BiosensorsJiangsu National Synergetic Innovation Center for Advanced Materials (SICAM)Nanjing University of Posts and TelecommunicationsNanjing210023China
| | - Yannan Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Electronics and Information Displays & Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM)Jiangsu Key Laboratory for BiosensorsJiangsu National Synergetic Innovation Center for Advanced Materials (SICAM)Nanjing University of Posts and TelecommunicationsNanjing210023China
| | - Jun Chen
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of California, Los AngelesLos AngelesCA90095USA
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Li K, Li H, Guo D, Zhan X, Li A, Cai Z, Li Z, Qu Z, Xue L, Li M, Song Y. 3D Optical Heterostructure Patterning by Spatially Allocating Nanoblocks on a Printed Matrix. ACS NANO 2022; 16:14838-14848. [PMID: 36094880 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c05721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Heterostructures have attracted enormous interest due to the properties arising from the coupling and synergizing between multiscale structures and the promising applications in electronics, mechanics, and optics. However, it is challenging for current technologies to precisely integrate cross-scale micro/nanomaterials in three dimensions (3D). Herein, we realize the precise spatial allocation of nanoblocks on micromatrices and programmable 3D optical heterostructure patterning via printing-assisted self-assembly. This bottom-up approach fully exploits the advantages of printing in on-demand patterning, low cost, and mass production, as well as the merits of solution-based colloidal assembly for simple structuring and high-precision regulating, which facilitates the patterned integration of multiscale materials. Importantly, the luminescent nanoparticle assembly can be accurately coupled to the dye-doped polymer matrix by regulating the interface wettability, enabling facile multicolor tuning in a single heterostructure. Thus, the heterostructure can be specially encoded for anticounterfeiting and encryption applications due to the morphology-dependent and interface-coupling-induced luminescence. Moreover, with the capability to achieve single-nanoparticle resolution, these findings have great potential for designing photonic superstructures and advanced optical devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaixuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Green Printing, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
| | - Huizeng Li
- Key Laboratory of Green Printing, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, People's Republic of China
| | - Dan Guo
- College of Physics and Optoelectronics, Faculty of Science, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiuqin Zhan
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Photochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, People's Republic of China
| | - An Li
- Key Laboratory of Green Printing, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
| | - Zheren Cai
- Key Laboratory of Green Printing, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, People's Republic of China
| | - Zheng Li
- Key Laboratory of Green Printing, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiyuan Qu
- Key Laboratory of Green Printing, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
| | - Luanluan Xue
- Key Laboratory of Green Printing, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingzhu Li
- Key Laboratory of Green Printing, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Materials Processing and Mold of the Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450002, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanlin Song
- Key Laboratory of Green Printing, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
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48
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Debata S, Kherani NA, Panda SK, Singh DP. Light-driven microrobots: capture and transport of bacteria and microparticles in a fluid medium. J Mater Chem B 2022; 10:8235-8243. [PMID: 36129102 DOI: 10.1039/d2tb01367c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The design of simple microrobotic systems with capabilities to address various applications like cargo transportation, as well as biological sample capture and manipulation in an individual unit, provides a novel route for designing advanced multifunctional microscale systems. Here, we demonstrate a facile approach to fabricate such multifunctional and fully controlled light-driven microrobots. The microrobots are titanium dioxide-silica Janus particles that are propelled in aqueous hydroquinone/benzoquinone fuel when illuminated by low-intensity UV light. The application of light provides control over the speed as well as activity of the microrobots. When modified with additional thin film coatings of nickel and gold, the microrobots exhibit the capturing and transportation of silica microparticles and E. coli bacteria. While transporting, they also show guided swimming under an external uniform magnetic field, which is interesting for deciding their moving path or the start/end positions. The fluorescent dye-based live/dead tests confirm that in the microrobot system almost no bacteria were harmed during the capturing or transportation. The simplistic design and steerable swimming with the ability to capture and transport are the important features of the microrobots. These features make them an ideal candidate for in vitro or lab-on-a-chip based studies, e.g., drug delivery, bacterial sensing, cell treatment, etc., where the capturing and transport of microscopic entities play a crucial role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srikanta Debata
- Department of Physics, IIT Bhilai, GEC Campus, Sejbahar, Raipur, Chattisgarh, 492015, India.
| | - Nomaan Alam Kherani
- Department of EECS, IIT Bhilai, GEC Campus, Sejbahar, Raipur, Chattisgarh, 492015, India
| | - Suvendu Kumar Panda
- Department of Physics, IIT Bhilai, GEC Campus, Sejbahar, Raipur, Chattisgarh, 492015, India.
| | - Dhruv Pratap Singh
- Department of Physics, IIT Bhilai, GEC Campus, Sejbahar, Raipur, Chattisgarh, 492015, India.
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49
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Liu M, Jiang J, Tan H, Chen B, Ou J, Wang H, Sun J, Liu L, Wang F, Gao J, Liu C, Peng F, Liu Y, Tu Y. Light-driven Au-ZnO nanorod motors for enhanced photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline. NANOSCALE 2022; 14:12804-12813. [PMID: 36018319 DOI: 10.1039/d2nr02441a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The abuse of antibiotics in human medicine and animal husbandry leads to the enrichment of antibiotic residues in aquatic environments, which has been a major problem of environmental pollution over the past decades. Therefore, it is urgent to develop a highly efficient approach to remove antibiotics from aquatic environments. Inspired by the motion characteristics of semiconductor-based micro-/nanomotors, a light-driven Au-ZnO nanomotor system based on vertically aligned ZnO arrays is successfully developed for the enhanced photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline (TC). Under UV light (λ = 365 nm) illumination, these Au-ZnO nanomotors exhibit a high speed in deionized water and TC solution. Due to their efficient motion capability and Au-enhanced charge separation, these light-driven Au-ZnO nanomotors removed almost all TC (40 mg L-1) within 30 min and displayed stable photocatalytic activity for four cycles without any apparent deactivation. The as-developed motor-based strategy for enhanced antibiotic degradation has excellent potential in environmental governance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meihuan Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| | - Jiamiao Jiang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| | - Haixin Tan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| | - Bin Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| | - Juanfeng Ou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| | - Hong Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| | - Jia Sun
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| | - Lu Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| | - Fei Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| | - Junbin Gao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| | - Chang Liu
- Sport Science College, Beijing Sport University, Beijing 100091, China.
| | - Fei Peng
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China.
| | - Yun Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Pharmacy Development, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China.
| | - Yingfeng Tu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
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50
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Wu R, Zhu Y, Cai X, Wu S, Xu L, Yu T. Recent Process in Microrobots: From Propulsion to Swarming for Biomedical Applications. MICROMACHINES 2022; 13:1473. [PMID: 36144096 PMCID: PMC9503943 DOI: 10.3390/mi13091473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Recently, robots have assisted and contributed to the biomedical field. Scaling down the size of robots to micro/nanoscale can increase the accuracy of targeted medications and decrease the danger of invasive operations in human surgery. Inspired by the motion pattern and collective behaviors of the tiny biological motors in nature, various kinds of sophisticated and programmable microrobots are fabricated with the ability for cargo delivery, bio-imaging, precise operation, etc. In this review, four types of propulsion-magnetically, acoustically, chemically/optically and hybrid driven-and their corresponding features have been outlined and categorized. In particular, the locomotion of these micro/nanorobots, as well as the requirement of biocompatibility, transportation efficiency, and controllable motion for applications in the complex human body environment should be considered. We discuss applications of different propulsion mechanisms in the biomedical field, list their individual benefits, and suggest their potential growth paths.
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