Achieving Control in Micro‐/Nanomotor Mobility

Abstract

Unprecedented opportunities exist for the generation of advanced nanotechnologies based on synthetic micro/ nanomotors (MNMs), such as active transport of medical agents or the removal of pollutants. In this regard, great efforts have been dedicated toward controlling MNM motion (e.g., speed, directionality). This was generally performed by precise engineering and optimizing of the motors' chassis, engine, powering mode (i.e., chemical or physical), and mechanism of motion. Recently, new insights have emerged to control motors mobility, mainly by the inclusion of different modes that drive propulsion. With high degree of synchronization, these modes work providing the required level of control. In this Minireview, we discuss the diverse factors that impact motion; these include MNM morphology, modes of mobility, and how control over motion was achieved. Moreover, we highlight the main limitations that need to be overcome so that such motion control can be translated into real applications.

Review of bubble and magnetically driven catalytic micro/nanomotors: Fabrication and characterization

“…Self-electrophoresis [21], interfacial tension gradients [22], bubble propulsion [23], and diffusiophoresis [24]are among the physical and chemical mechanisms proposed to explain the propulsion behavior of MNMs. Propulsion in bubble MNMs takes place through bubbles, these bubbles are produced either through redox reactions that lead to the spontaneous production of gas or through chemical reactions that lead to the degradation of a fuel such as hydrogen peroxide or a catalysis.…”

Janus mesoporous organosilica/platinum nanomotors for active treatment of suppurative otitis media

“…22 Among them, nanomotors using hydrogen peroxide as a chemical fuel have been widely studied. [23][24][25][26] It is generally believed that hydrogen peroxidepowered nanomotors are difficult to apply in vivo because of the poor biocompatibility of hydrogen peroxide. 27 But in fact, low-concentration hydrogen peroxide is widely used in medicine.…”