Engineering of light-responsive nanorobots for targeted functions

Self-propelled nanomotors are tiny devices capable of converting energy from their surroundings into mechanical motion. However, at the nanoscale, motion is highly influenced by Brownian and thermal forces. To overcome these limitations, a constant force must be applied. Among various approaches, optical actuation stands out as a particularly promising method due to its ability to modulate motion through wavelength, polarization, intensity, and direction. Here, we introduce photoactive nanomotors with anisotropic morphologies that move under external light irradiation. Furthermore, to achieve more precise directional motion, we explore the combination of both light and magnetic external fields. The remarkable versatility and potential of these photoactivated nanomachines in the context of selective oxidations is also demonstrated.Consequently, this work introduces an innovative approach to overcome challenges in achieving precise directional motion in light-driven nanomotors, thereby enhancing their photoactivity.