Shape-directed rotation of homogeneous micromotors via catalytic self-electrophoresis.

ABSTRACT: The pursuit of chemically-powered colloidal machines requires individual components that perform different motions within a common environment. Such motions can be tailored by controlling the shape and/or composition of catalytic microparticles; however, the ability to design particle motions remains limited by incomplete understanding of the relevant propulsion mechanism(s). Here, we demonstrate that platinum microparticles move spontaneously in solutions of hydrogen peroxide and that their motions can be rationally designed by controlling particle shape. Nanofabricated particles with n-fold rotational symmetry rotate steadily with speed and direction specified by the type and extent of shape asymmetry. The observed relationships between particle shape and motion provide evidence for a se

SUBMITTER: Brooks AM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6353883 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature