Modular Interfacial Microswimmers

In this work we introduce a modular self-assembled microswimmer whose propulsion mechanism along a fluid interface is based on the decoupling between the dynamics exhibited by the component particles and the assembly. The velocity, direction, and structure of the array can be dynamically adjusted by altering the applied field and understood in terms of hydrodynamics. We also show how these small micromotors can act as building blocks of more complex designs, which can be used for the precise and long-range transport of hydrophilic, hydrophobic, or amphiphilic molecules and cargos along various fluid interfaces.

Automated summary

This work introduces a modular self-assembled microswimmer, whose propulsion mechanism along a fluid interface can be dynamically adjusted for the transport of molecules and cargos of different properties. The dynamics of the array can be understood in terms of hydrodynamics.