Acoustic microbubble propulsion, train-like assembly and cargo transport

Jakub Janiak, Yuyang Li, Yann Ferry, Alexander A. Doinikov and Daniel Ahmed ()
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Jakub Janiak: Acoustic Robotics Systems Lab (ARSL), Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems, ETH Zurich
Yuyang Li: Acoustic Robotics Systems Lab (ARSL), Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems, ETH Zurich
Yann Ferry: Acoustic Robotics Systems Lab (ARSL), Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems, ETH Zurich
Alexander A. Doinikov: Acoustic Robotics Systems Lab (ARSL), Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems, ETH Zurich
Daniel Ahmed: Acoustic Robotics Systems Lab (ARSL), Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems, ETH Zurich

Nature Communications, 2023, vol. 14, issue 1, 1-10

Abstract: Abstract Achieving controlled mobility of microparticles in viscous fluids can become pivotal in biologics, biotechniques, and biomedical applications. The self-assembly, trapping, and transport of microparticles are being explored in active matter, micro and nanorobotics, and microfluidics; however, little work has been done in acoustics, particularly in active matter and robotics. This study reports the discovery and characterization of microbubble behaviors in a viscous gel that is confined to a slight opening between glass boundaries in an acoustic field. Where incident waves encounter a narrow slit, acoustic pressure is amplified, causing the microbubbles to nucleate and cavitate within it. Intermittent activation transforms microbubbles from spherical to ellipsoidal, allowing them to be trapped within the interstice. Continuous activation propels ellipsoidal microbubbles through shape and volume modes that is developed at their surfaces. Ensembles of microbubbles self-assemble into a train-like arrangement, which in turn capture, transport, and release microparticles.

Date: 2023
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40387-7

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