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

Allan M. Brooks, Mykola Tasinkevych, Syeda Sabrina, Darrell Velegol, Ayusman Sen () and Kyle J. M. Bishop ()
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Allan M. Brooks: Pennsylvania State University
Mykola Tasinkevych: Universidade de Lisboa
Syeda Sabrina: Pennsylvania State University
Darrell Velegol: Pennsylvania State University
Ayusman Sen: Pennsylvania State University
Kyle J. M. Bishop: Columbia University

Nature Communications, 2019, vol. 10, issue 1, 1-9

Abstract: 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 self-electrophoretic propulsion mechanism, whereby anodic oxidation and cathodic reduction occur at different rates at different locations on the particle surface. We develop a mathematical model that explains how particle shape impacts the relevant electrocatalytic reactions and the resulting electrokinetic flows that drive particle motion.

Date: 2019
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-08423-7

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