1
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Nourhani A. Phoresis kernel theory for passive and active spheres with nonuniform phoretic mobility. SOFT MATTER 2024; 20:6907-6919. [PMID: 39189589 DOI: 10.1039/d4sm00360h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
By introducing geometry-based phoresis kernels, we establish a direct connection between the translational and rotational velocities of a phoretic sphere and the distributions of the driving fields or fluxes. The kernels quantify the local contribution of the field or flux to the particle dynamics. The field kernels for both passive and active particles share the same functional form, depending on the position-dependent surface phoretic mobility. For uniform phoretic mobility, the translational field kernel is proportional to the surface normal vector, while the rotational field kernel is zero; thus, a phoretic sphere with uniform phoretic mobility does not rotate. As case studies, we discuss examples of a self-phoretic axisymmetric particle influenced by a globally-driven field gradient, a general scenario for axisymmetric self-phoretic particle and two of its special cases, and a non-axisymmetric active particle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Nourhani
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Akron, Akron, OH, USA.
- Biomimicry Research and Innovation Center (BRIC), University of Akron, Akron, OH, USA
- Department of Biology, University of Akron, Akron, OH, USA
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2
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Cheng Q, Lu X, Tai Y, Luo T, Yang R. Light-Driven Microrobots for Targeted Drug Delivery. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024; 10:5562-5594. [PMID: 39147594 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.4c01191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
As a new micromanipulation tool with the advantages of small size, flexible movement and easy manipulation, light-driven microrobots have a wide range of prospects in biomedical fields such as drug targeting and cell manipulation. Recently, microrobots have been controlled in various ways, and light field has become a research hotspot by its advantages of noncontact manipulation, precise localization, fast response, and biocompatibility. It utilizes the force or deformation generated by the light field to precisely control the microrobot, and combines with the drug release technology to realize the targeted drug application. Therefore, this paper provides an overview of light-driven microrobots with drug targeting to provide new ideas for the manipulation of microrobots. Here, this paper briefly categorizes the driving mechanisms and materials of light-driven microrobots, which mainly include photothermal, photochemical, and biological. Then, typical designs of light-driven microrobots with different driving mechanisms and control strategies for multiple physical fields are summarized. Finally, the applications of microrobots in the fields of drug targeting and bioimaging are presented as well as the future prospects of light-driven microrobots in the biomedical field are demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qilong Cheng
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Xingqi Lu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Yunhao Tai
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Tingting Luo
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Runhuai Yang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
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3
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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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4
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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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5
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McGovern AD, Huang MJ, Wang J, Kapral R, Aranson IS. Multifunctional Chiral Chemically-Powered Micropropellers for Cargo Transport and Manipulation. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2304773. [PMID: 37936335 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202304773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Practical applications of synthetic self-propelled nano and microparticles for microrobotics, targeted drug delivery, and manipulation at the nanoscale are rapidly expanding. However, fabrication limitations often hinder progress, resulting in relatively simple shapes and limited functionality. Here, taking advantage of 3D nanoscale printing, chiral micropropellers powered by the hydrogen peroxide reduction reaction are fabricated. Due to their chirality, the propellers exhibit multifunctional behavior controlled by an applied magnetic field: spinning in place (loitering), directed migration in the prescribed direction, capture, and transport of polymer cargo particles. Design parameters of the propellers are optimized by computation modeling based on mesoscale molecular dynamics. It is predicted by computer simulations, and confirmed experimentally, that clockwise rotating propellers attract each other and counterclockwise repel. These results shed light on how chirality and shape optimization enhance the functionality of synthetic autonomous micromachines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashlee D McGovern
- Department of Chemistry, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Mu-Jie Huang
- Chemical Physics Theory Group, Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Jiyuan Wang
- School of Electrical and Control Engineering, Heilongjiang University of Science and Technology, Harbin, 150022, P. R. China
| | - Raymond Kapral
- Chemical Physics Theory Group, Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Igor S Aranson
- Department of Chemistry, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
- Department of Mathematics, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
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6
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Ali A, Kim H, Torati SR, Kang Y, Reddy V, Kim K, Yoon J, Lim B, Kim C. Magnetic Lateral Ladder for Unidirectional Transport of Microrobots: Design Principles and Potential Applications of Cells-on-Chip. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2305528. [PMID: 37845030 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202305528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Functionalized microrobots, which are directionally manipulated in a controlled and precise manner for specific tasks, face challenges. However, magnetic field-based controls constrain all microrobots to move in a coordinated manner, limiting their functions and independent behaviors. This article presents a design principle for achieving unidirectional microrobot transport using an asymmetric magnetic texture in the shape of a lateral ladder, which the authors call the "railway track." An asymmetric magnetic energy distribution along the axis allows for the continuous movement of microrobots in a fixed direction regardless of the direction of the magnetic field rotation. The authors demonstrated precise control and simple utilization of this method. Specifically, by placing magnetic textures with different directionalities, an integrated cell/particle collector can collect microrobots distributed in a large area and move them along a complex trajectory to a predetermined location. The authors can leverage the versatile capabilities offered by this texture concept, including hierarchical isolation, switchable collection, programmable pairing, selective drug-response test, and local fluid mixing for target objects. The results demonstrate the importance of microrobot directionality in achieving complex individual control. This novel concept represents significant advancement over conventional magnetic field-based control technology and paves the way for further research in biofunctionalized microrobotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbas Ali
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeonseol Kim
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Sri Ramulu Torati
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
- Center for Bioelectronics, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, 23508, USA
| | - Yumin Kang
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Venu Reddy
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
- Nanotechnology Research Center, SRKR Engineering College, Bhimavaram, Andhra Pradesh, 534204, India
| | - Keonmok Kim
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Jonghwan Yoon
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Byeonghwa Lim
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - CheolGi Kim
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
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7
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Zhao Z, Chen J, Zhan G, Gu S, Cong J, Liu M, Liu Y. Controlling the Collective Behaviors of Ultrasound-Driven Nanomotors via Frequency Regulation. MICROMACHINES 2024; 15:262. [PMID: 38398990 PMCID: PMC10892131 DOI: 10.3390/mi15020262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Controlling the collective behavior of micro/nanomotors with ultrasound may enable new functionality in robotics, medicine, and other engineering disciplines. Currently, various collective behaviors of nanomotors, such as assembly, reconfiguration, and disassembly, have been explored by using acoustic fields with a fixed frequency, while regulating their collective behaviors by varying the ultrasound frequency still remains challenging. In this work, we designed an ultrasound manipulation methodology that allows nanomotors to exhibit different collective behaviors by regulating the applied ultrasound frequency. The experimental results and FEM simulations demonstrate that the secondary ultrasonic waves produced from the edge of the sample cell lead to the formation of complex acoustic pressure fields and microfluidic patterns, which causes these collective behaviors. This work has important implications for the design of artificial actuated nanomotors and optimize their performances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihong Zhao
- Hubei Engineering Research Center of Weak Magnetic-Field Detection, College of Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; (Z.Z.)
| | - Jie Chen
- Hubei Engineering Research Center of Weak Magnetic-Field Detection, College of Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; (Z.Z.)
| | - Gaocheng Zhan
- Hubei Engineering Research Center of Weak Magnetic-Field Detection, College of Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; (Z.Z.)
| | - Shuhao Gu
- Hubei Engineering Research Center of Weak Magnetic-Field Detection, College of Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; (Z.Z.)
| | - Jiawei Cong
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China;
| | - Min Liu
- Hubei Engineering Research Center of Weak Magnetic-Field Detection, College of Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; (Z.Z.)
| | - Yiman Liu
- Hubei Engineering Research Center of Weak Magnetic-Field Detection, College of Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; (Z.Z.)
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8
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Song J, Shklyaev OE, Sapre A, Balazs AC, Sen A. Self-Propelling Macroscale Sheets Powered by Enzyme Pumps. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202311556. [PMID: 38079027 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202311556] [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: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/31/2023]
Abstract
Nanoscale enzymes anchored to surfaces act as chemical pumps by converting chemical energy released from enzymatic reactions into spontaneous fluid flow that propels entrained nano- and microparticles. Enzymatic pumps are biocompatible, highly selective, and display unique substrate specificity. Utilizing these pumps to trigger self-propelled motion on the macroscale has, however, constituted a significant challenge and thus prevented their adaptation in macroscopic fluidic devices and soft robotics. Using experiments and simulations, we herein show that enzymatic pumps can drive centimeter-scale polymer sheets along directed linear paths and rotational trajectories. In these studies, the sheets are confined to the air/water interface. With the addition of appropriate substrate, the asymmetric enzymatic coating on the sheets induces chemically driven, buoyancy flows that controllably propel the sheet's motion on the air/water interface. The directionality and speed of the motion can be tailored by changing the pattern of the enzymatic coating, type of enzyme, and nature and concentration of the substrate. This work highlights the utility of biocompatible enzymes for generating motion in macroscale fluidic devices and robotics and indicates their potential utility for in vivo applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Song
- Department of Chemistry, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA-16802, USA
| | - Oleg E Shklyaev
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA-15260, USA
| | - Aditya Sapre
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA-16802, USA
| | - Anna C Balazs
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA-15260, USA
| | - Ayusman Sen
- Department of Chemistry, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA-16802, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA-16802, USA
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9
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Shklyaev OE, Balazs AC. Interlinking spatial dimensions and kinetic processes in dissipative materials to create synthetic systems with lifelike functionality. NATURE NANOTECHNOLOGY 2024; 19:146-159. [PMID: 38057363 DOI: 10.1038/s41565-023-01530-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Biological systems spontaneously convert energy input into the actions necessary to survive. Motivated by the efficacy of these processes, researchers aim to forge materials systems that exhibit the self-sustained and autonomous functionality found in nature. Success in this effort will require synthetic analogues of the following: a metabolism to generate energy, a vasculature to transport energy and materials, a nervous system to transmit 'commands', a musculoskeletal system to translate commands into physical action, regulatory networks to monitor the entire enterprise, and a mechanism to convert 'nutrients' into growing materials. Design rules must interconnect the material's structural and kinetic properties over ranges of length (that can vary from the nano- to mesoscale) and timescales to enable local energy dissipations to power global functionality. Moreover, by harnessing dynamic interactions intrinsic to the material, the system itself can perform the work needed for its own functionality. Here, we assess the advances and challenges in dissipative materials design and at the same time aim to spur developments in next-generation functional, 'living' materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oleg E Shklyaev
- Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Anna C Balazs
- Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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10
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Mena-Giraldo P, Kaur M, Maurizio SL, Mandl GA, Capobianco JA. Janus Micromotors for Photophoretic Motion and Photon Upconversion Applications Using a Single Near-Infrared Wavelength. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:4249-4260. [PMID: 38197400 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c16454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
External stimuli can trigger changes in temperature, concentration, and momentum between micromotors and the medium, causing their propulsion and enabling them to perform different tasks with improved kinetic efficiencies. Light-activated micromotors are attractive systems that achieve improved motion and have the potential for high spatiotemporal control. Photophoretic swarming motion represents an attractive means to induce micromotor movement through the generation of temperature gradients in the medium, enabling the micromotors to move from cold to hot regions. The micromotors studied herein are assembled with Fe3O4 nanoparticles, and NaGdF4:Yb3+,Er3+/NaGdF4:Yb3+ and LiYF4:Yb3+,Tm3+ upconverting nanoparticles. The Fe3O4 nanoparticles were localized to one hemisphere to produce a Janus architecture that facilitates improved upconversion luminescence with the upconverting nanoparticles distributed throughout. Under 976 nm excitation, Fe3O4 nanoparticles generate the temperature gradient, while the upconverting nanoparticles produce visible light that is used for micromotor motion tracking and triggering of reactive oxygen species generation. As such, the motion and application of the micromotors are achieved using a single excitation wavelength. To demonstrate the practicality of this system, curcumin was adsorbed to the micromotor surface and degradation of Rhodamine B was achieved with kinetic rates that were over twice as fast as the static micromotors. The upconversion luminescence was also used to track the motion of the micromotors from a single image frame, providing a convenient means to understand the trajectory of these systems. Together, this system provides a versatile approach to achieving light-driven motion while taking advantage of the potential applications of upconversion luminescence such as tracking and detection, sensing, nanothermometry, particle velocimetry, photodynamic therapy, and pollutant degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Mena-Giraldo
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Centre for NanoScience Research, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec H4B 1R6, Canada
| | - Mannu Kaur
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Centre for NanoScience Research, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec H4B 1R6, Canada
| | - Steven L Maurizio
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Centre for NanoScience Research, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec H4B 1R6, Canada
| | - Gabrielle A Mandl
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Centre for NanoScience Research, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec H4B 1R6, Canada
| | - John A Capobianco
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Centre for NanoScience Research, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec H4B 1R6, Canada
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11
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Zheng J, Huang R, Lin Z, Chen S, Yuan K. Nano/Micromotors for Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy: Innovative Designs to Improve Biocompatibility. Pharmaceutics 2023; 16:44. [PMID: 38258055 PMCID: PMC10821023 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16010044] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Nano/micromotors are artificial robots at the nano/microscale that are capable of transforming energy into mechanical movement. In cancer diagnosis or therapy, such "tiny robots" show great promise for targeted drug delivery, cell removal/killing, and even related biomarker sensing. Yet biocompatibility is still the most critical challenge that restricts such techniques from transitioning from the laboratory to clinical applications. In this review, we emphasize the biocompatibility aspect of nano/micromotors to show the great efforts made by researchers to promote their clinical application, mainly including non-toxic fuel propulsion (inorganic catalysts, enzyme, etc.), bio-hybrid designs, ultrasound propulsion, light-triggered propulsion, magnetic propulsion, dual propulsion, and, in particular, the cooperative swarm-based strategy for increasing therapeutic effects. Future challenges in translating nano/micromotors into real applications and the potential directions for increasing biocompatibility are also described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahuan Zheng
- Department of Chemistry, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China;
| | - Rui Huang
- Bio-Analytical Laboratory, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China; (R.H.); (Z.L.)
| | - Zhexuan Lin
- Bio-Analytical Laboratory, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China; (R.H.); (Z.L.)
| | - Shaoqi Chen
- Department of Ultrasound, First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Kaisong Yuan
- Bio-Analytical Laboratory, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China; (R.H.); (Z.L.)
- Department of Ultrasound, First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
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12
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Feng K, Chen L, Zhang X, Gong J, Qu J, Niu R. Collective Behaviors of Isotropic Micromotors: From Assembly to Reconstruction and Motion Control under External Fields. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:2900. [PMID: 37947744 PMCID: PMC10650937 DOI: 10.3390/nano13212900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Swarms of self-propelled micromotors can mimic the processes of natural systems and construct artificial intelligent materials to perform complex collective behaviors. Compared to self-propelled Janus micromotors, the isotropic colloid motors, also called micromotors or microswimmers, have advantages in self-assembly to form micromotor swarms, which are efficient in resistance to external disturbance and the delivery of large quantity of cargos. In this minireview, we summarize the fundamental principles and interactions for the assembly of isotropic active particles to generate micromotor swarms. Recent discoveries based on either catalytic or external physical field-stimulated micromotor swarms are also presented. Then, the strategy for the reconstruction and motion control of micromotor swarms in complex environments, including narrow channels, maze, raised obstacles, and high steps/low gaps, is summarized. Finally, we outline the future directions of micromotor swarms and the remaining challenges and opportunities.
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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, Ministry of Education, Wuhan 430074, China; (K.F.); (L.C.); (X.Z.); (J.Q.)
| | - 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, Ministry of Education, Wuhan 430074, China; (K.F.); (L.C.); (X.Z.); (J.Q.)
| | - Xinle Zhang
- 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, Ministry of Education, Wuhan 430074, China; (K.F.); (L.C.); (X.Z.); (J.Q.)
| | - 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, Ministry of Education, Wuhan 430074, China; (K.F.); (L.C.); (X.Z.); (J.Q.)
| | - 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, Ministry of Education, Wuhan 430074, China; (K.F.); (L.C.); (X.Z.); (J.Q.)
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Processing Engineering, Ministry of Education, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Technique and Equipment for Macromolecular Advanced Manufacturing, National Engineering Research Center of Novel Equipment for Polymer Processing, School of Mechanical and Automotive Engineering, South China University of Technology, Ministry of Education, 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, Ministry of Education, Wuhan 430074, China; (K.F.); (L.C.); (X.Z.); (J.Q.)
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13
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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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14
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Jung Y, Yoon SJ, Byun J, Jung KW, Choi JW. Visible-light-induced self-propelled nanobots against nanoplastics. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 244:120543. [PMID: 37659178 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
The accumulation of plastic debris in aquatic organisms has raised serious concerns about the potential health implications of their incorporation into the food chain. However, conventional water remediation techniques are incapable of effectively removing nanoplastics (NPs) smaller than 200 nm, which can have harmful effect on animal and human health. Herein, we demonstrate the "on-the-fly" capture of NPs through their enlargement (approximately 4,100 times) using self-propelled nanobots composed of a metal-organic framework. Under visible-light irradiation, the iron hexacyanoferrate (FeHCF) nanobot exhibits fuel-free motion by electrostatically adsorbing NPs. This strategy can contribute to reducing plastic pollution in the environment, which is a significant environmental challenge. Light-induced intervalence charge transfer in the FeHCF nanobot lattice induces bipolarity on the nanobot surface, leading to the binding of negatively charged NPs. The local electron density in the lattice then triggers self-propulsion, thereby inducing agglomeration of FeHCF@NP complexes to stabilize their metastable state. The FeHCF nanobot exhibits a maximum removal capacity of 3,060 mg∙g-1 and rate constant of 0.69 min-1, which are higher than those recorded for materials reported in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngkyun Jung
- Center for Water Cycle Research, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Su-Jin Yoon
- Center for Sustainable Environmental Research, KIST, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; Division of Energy & Environment Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeehye Byun
- Center for Water Cycle Research, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; Division of Energy & Environment Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Won Jung
- Center for Water Cycle Research, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jae-Woo Choi
- Center for Water Cycle Research, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; Division of Energy & Environment Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea.
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15
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Stengele P, Lüders A, Nielaba P. Capture and transport of rod-shaped cargo via programmable active particles. Sci Rep 2023; 13:15071. [PMID: 37699952 PMCID: PMC10497632 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-42119-9] [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: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
We study the influence of the cargo shape on the capture and transport process of colloidal rods via swarms of active particles using Brownian dynamics simulations. Starting at random initial conditions, active particles that interact via the Lennard-Jones potential and possess a tuneable speed are utilised to capture passive rods inside a hexagonal cage of individually addressable units. By adjusting the velocity of the individual active particles, the rod can then be transported. To guarantee a successful capture process (with a strong localisation), we find that specific geometric and energetic constraints have to be met; i.e., the length of the rod must approximately be in the vicinity of an odd multiple of the lattice constant of the hexagonal cage, and the Lennard-Jones interaction strength must be in the range of [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text]. If the cargo aspect ratio gets too large, the subsequent transport of successfully captured rods can fail. For systems where transport is possible, an increase in the cargo aspect ratio decreases the achievable transport velocity. Our work shows that the particle shape must be considered while designing interaction rules to accomplish specific tasks via groups of controllable units.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Stengele
- Statistical and Computational Physics, Department of Physics, University of Konstanz, 78457, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Anton Lüders
- Statistical and Computational Physics, Department of Physics, University of Konstanz, 78457, Konstanz, Germany.
| | - Peter Nielaba
- Statistical and Computational Physics, Department of Physics, University of Konstanz, 78457, Konstanz, Germany
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16
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Feng K, Ureña Marcos JC, Mukhopadhyay AK, Niu R, Zhao Q, Qu J, Liebchen B. Self-Solidifying Active Droplets Showing Memory-Induced Chirality. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2300866. [PMID: 37526332 PMCID: PMC10520641 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202300866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
Most synthetic microswimmers do not reach the autonomy of their biological counterparts in terms of energy supply and diversity of motions. Here, this work reports the first all-aqueous droplet swimmer powered by self-generated polyelectrolyte gradients, which shows memory-induced chirality while self-solidifying. An aqueous solution of surface tension-lowering polyelectrolytes self-solidifies on the surface of acidic water, during which polyelectrolytes are gradually emitted into the surrounding water and induce linear self-propulsion via spontaneous symmetry breaking. The low diffusion coefficient of the polyelectrolytes leads to long-lived chemical trails which cause memory effects that drive a transition from linear to chiral motion without requiring any imposed symmetry breaking. The droplet swimmer is capable of highly efficient removal (up to 85%) of uranium from aqueous solutions within 90 min, benefiting from self-propulsion and flow-induced mixing. These results provide a route to fueling self-propelled agents which can autonomously perform chiral motion and collect toxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Feng
- Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry for Energy Conversion and StorageMinistry of EducationSchool of Chemistry and Chemical EngineeringHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan430074China
| | | | - Aritra K. Mukhopadhyay
- Institut für Physik Kondensierter MaterieTechnische Universität Darmstadt64289DarmstadtGermany
| | - Ran Niu
- Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry for Energy Conversion and StorageMinistry of EducationSchool of Chemistry and Chemical EngineeringHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan430074China
| | - Qiang Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry for Energy Conversion and StorageMinistry of EducationSchool of Chemistry and Chemical EngineeringHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan430074China
| | - Jinping Qu
- Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry for Energy Conversion and StorageMinistry of EducationSchool of Chemistry and Chemical EngineeringHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan430074China
| | - Benno Liebchen
- Institut für Physik Kondensierter MaterieTechnische Universität Darmstadt64289DarmstadtGermany
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17
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Yang Y, Li C, Palmer LC, Stupp SI. Autonomous hydrogel locomotion regulated by light and electric fields. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadi4566. [PMID: 37531426 PMCID: PMC10396299 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adi4566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Autonomous robotic functions in materials beyond simple stimulus-response actuation require the development of functional soft matter that can complete well-organized tasks without step-by-step control. We report the design of photo- and electroactivated hydrogels that can capture and deliver cargo, avoid obstacles, and return without external, stepwise control. By incorporating two spiropyran monomers with different chemical substituents in the hydrogel, we created chemically random networks that enabled photoregulated charge reversal and autonomous behaviors under a constant electric field. In addition, using perturbations in the electric field induced by a dielectric inhomogeneity, the hydrogel could be attracted to high dielectric constant materials and autonomously bypasses the low dielectric constant materials under the guidance of the electric field vector. The photo- and electroactive hydrogels investigated here can autonomously perform tasks using constant external stimuli, an encouraging observation for the potential development of molecularly designed intelligent robotic materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- Center for Bio-Inspired Energy Science, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Chuang Li
- Center for Bio-Inspired Energy Science, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Liam C Palmer
- Center for Bio-Inspired Energy Science, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Samuel I Stupp
- Center for Bio-Inspired Energy Science, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
- Department of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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18
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Jancik-Prochazkova A, Pumera M. Light-powered swarming phoretic antimony chalcogenide-based microrobots with "on-the-fly" photodegradation abilities. NANOSCALE 2023; 15:5726-5734. [PMID: 36866684 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr00098b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Microrobots are at the forefront of research for biomedical and environmental applications. Whereas a single microrobot exhibits quite low performance in the large-scale environment, swarms of microrobots are representing a powerful tool in biomedical and environmental applications. Here, we fabricated phoretic Sb2S3-based microrobots that exhibited swarming behavior under light illumination without any addition of chemical fuel. The microrobots were prepared in an environmentally friendly way by reacting the precursors with bio-originated templates in aqueous solution in a microwave reactor. The crystalline Sb2S3 material provided the microrobots with interesting optical and semiconductive properties. Because of the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) upon light illumination, the microrobots possessed photocatalytic properties. To demonstrate the photocatalytic abilities, industrially used dyes, quinoline yellow and tartrazine were degraded using microrobots in the "on-the-fly" mode. Overall, this proof-of-concept work showed that Sb2S3 photoactive material is suitable for designing swarming microrobots for environmental remediation applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Jancik-Prochazkova
- Center for Advanced Functional Nanorobots, Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Martin Pumera
- Center for Advanced Functional Nanorobots, Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28, Prague, Czech Republic.
- Future Energy and Innovation Laboratory, Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkynova 656/123, 621 00, Brno, Czech Republic
- 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, No. 91 Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung, Taiwan 40402
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