Self-assembly of micro-machining systems powered by Janus micro-motors

Integration of active matter in larger micro-devices can provide an embedded source of propulsion and lead to self-actuated micromachining systems that do not rely on any external power or control apparatus. Here we demonstrate that Janus colloids can self-assemble around micro-fabricated rotors in...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published in:arXiv.org 2017-07
Main Authors: Maggi, C, Simmchen, J, Saglimbeni, F, Katuri, J, Dipalo, M, De Angelis, F, Sánchez, S, R Di Leonardo
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Configurations
Embedded systems
Machining
Micromachining
Micromotors
Rotors
Self-assembly
Online Access:Get full text
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:Integration of active matter in larger micro-devices can provide an embedded source of propulsion and lead to self-actuated micromachining systems that do not rely on any external power or control apparatus. Here we demonstrate that Janus colloids can self-assemble around micro-fabricated rotors in reproducible configurations with a high degree of spatial and orientational order. The final configuration maximizes the torque applied on the rotor leading to a unidirectional and steady rotating motion. We discuss how the interplay between geometry and dynamical behavior consistently leads to the self-assembly of autonomous micromotors starting from randomly distributed building blocks.
ISSN:2331-8422
DOI:10.48550/arxiv.1707.03630