Titania-Based Micro/Nanomotors: Design Principles, Biomimetic Collective Behavior, and Applications

Jianhua Zhang, Jiaqi Song, Fangzhi Mou, Jianguo Guan, Ayusman Sen

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

24 Scopus citations

Abstract

Autonomous micro/nanomotors (MNMs) serve as models for biologically active matter and have potential applications in nanomachinery, nanoscale assembly, robotics, fluidics, and chemical/biochemical sensing. Using light to power and direct the motion of MNMs is particularly advantageous since the light source can provide spatiotemporal control over transport. Because of its superior stability and photocatalytic and photothermal properties, titanium dioxide (titania, TiO2) is an especially attractive material for the design of MNMs. We discuss the progress to date in the fabrication and use of titania-based MNMs. These show biomimetic swarming behavior and have potential applications in microfluidics, cargo delivery, and environmental remediation. We end with limitations of the current MNMs and the challenges that need to be overcome for the field to move forward.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)387-401
Number of pages15
JournalTrends in Chemistry
Volume3
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - May 2021

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • General Chemistry

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