Light-driven dancing of nematic colloids in fractional skyrmions and bimerons

Zhawure Asilehan, Wentao Tang, Jing Zhang, Zijun Chen, Ruijie Wang, Qingtian Shi, Ganlin Song, Jinghua Jiang (), Rui Zhang () and Chenhui Peng ()
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Zhawure Asilehan: University of Science and Technology of China
Wentao Tang: Kowloon
Jing Zhang: University of Science and Technology of China
Zijun Chen: University of Science and Technology of China
Ruijie Wang: University of Science and Technology of China
Qingtian Shi: University of Science and Technology of China
Ganlin Song: University of Science and Technology of China
Jinghua Jiang: University of Science and Technology of China
Rui Zhang: Kowloon
Chenhui Peng: University of Science and Technology of China

Nature Communications, 2025, vol. 16, issue 1, 1-13

Abstract: Abstract Materials with full and fractional skyrmions are important for fundamental studies and can be applied as information carriers for applications in spintronics or skyrmionics. However, creation, direct optical observation and manipulation of different skyrmion textures remain challenging. Besides, how the transformation of skyrmion textures directs the dynamics of colloids is not well understood. Here, we use experiments, simulations and theory to demonstrate that fractional skyrmion and bimeron strings can be created in a nematic liquid crystal (LC) through incompatible interfaced topological patterns. Moreover, distinct topological profiles are realized in the same skyrmion string loop. The light-actuated transformations of fractional skyrmion textures in both straight and loop geometry drive colloidal assemblies to exhibit exotic dynamic behaviors. Finally, fractional skyrmions with arbitrary shapes can be used as templates for a variety of exquisite colloidal assemblies. This work provides opportunities for designing new smart material to control self-assembly and transport of colloids.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-56263-5

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