Modular Micromotor Fabrication with Self‐Focusing Lithography
Synthetic Janus micro/nanomotors can efficiently convert ambient energy into asymmetrical self-propulsive force, overcoming random thermal fluctuations and enabling autonomous migration. Further modifications to the motors can equip them with different functional modules to meet different needs. However, developing a versatile and high-yield fabrication method for multifunctional Janus micromotors remains challenging. In this study, a modular fabrication approach for micromotors with a particle-tip structure based on the self-focusing lithography induced by an array of TiO<sub>2</sub> microspheres is presented. By adjusting the tip composition or loading, precise programming of motor functionality is achieved, allowing for various capabilities such as photoredox reaction-induced propulsion, fluorescent imaging, electric and magnetic navigation. Furthermore, the flexibility of this fabrication method by selectively loading materials onto two tips is demonstrated to achieve multifunctionality within a micromotor unit. This study proposes a straightforward and versatile approach for modular functional micromotors.
Authors
- Binglin Zeng (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8729-1944)
- Jinyao Tang (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0051-148X)
- Qingxin Guo (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3703-2394)
- Xiaofeng Li (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3946-5791)
- Wei Wang (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4163-3173)
- Jingyuan Chen (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4748-1182)
- Yingnan Cao
Institutions
- Shenzhen Institute of Information Technology (CN)
- Harbin Institute of Technology (CN)
- State Key Laboratory of Synthetic Chemistry (CN)
- Institute of New Materials (CN)
- University of Hong Kong (HK)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Small Methods
- Published
- 2024-11-07
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1002/smtd.202401388
- Citations
- 3
- Primary Topic
- Micro and Nano Robotics
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.93
Funders
- National Key Research and Development Program of China