Organized self-assembly of Janus micromotors with hydrophobic hemispheres

J Am Chem Soc. 2013 Jan 23;135(3):998-1001. doi: 10.1021/ja311455k. Epub 2013 Jan 8.

Abstract

Organized self-assemblies of Janus catalytic motors, induced by hydrophobic surface interactions involving multiple motor/motor and motor/nonmotor particles, display controlled coordinated self-propulsion. The influence of the self-assembled structures upon the motion behavior is investigated. A dynamic 'on-the-fly' assembly is observed during the continuous movement of the individual components, along with changes in the motion behavior. Organized assemblies of multiple motor/nonmotor particles are also illustrated toward optimal cargo transport and delivery. Such controlled structures and motion of chemically powered Janus micromotor assemblies hold considerable promise for the creation of intelligent nanomachines that perform collective tasks.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Catalysis
  • Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions
  • Microspheres
  • Particle Size
  • Platinum / chemistry
  • Silanes / chemistry*
  • Silicon Dioxide / chemical synthesis*
  • Silicon Dioxide / chemistry
  • Surface Properties

Substances

  • Silanes
  • octadecyltrichlorosilane
  • Platinum
  • Silicon Dioxide