Autonomous Catalytic Nanomotors Based on 2D Magnetic Nanoplates

Abstract

Engineering the shape of nanoparticles has emerged as an effective approach for optimizing their physical/chemical properties. In particular, two-dimensional (2D) nanostructures with their high surface area/volume ratio have opened up exciting opportunities for developing advanced anisotropic materials and facilitating chemical processes that demand high levels of surface interactions. Although the great potential of low-dimensional 2D nanoswimmers has been suggested by theoretical works, very little experimental study has been undertaken thus far. Here we fabricated a low-dimensional magnetic nanomotor based on discotic barium ferrite nanoplates. We demonstrated that the “fuel-to-motion” behavior and the enhanced diffusion of nanoswimmers are not limited to just 0D nanospheres or 1D nanorods but are also applicable to 2D nanoplates. In addition, the 2D nanoswimmers showed excellent catalytic performance in removing molecular and particle stains on cloth likely due to their catalytic activity as well as active locomotion that enhanced microconvection of solution. This study validated a new self-powered nanomachine for cleaning application without any requirement of surfactants or external mechanical energy.

Nanorobots: Machines Squeezed between Molecular Motors and Micromotors

“…Futher examples of Janus nanomotors include light-activated nanoparticles, 71,74 novel carriers as MOFs, 67 noble-metal composite nanoparticles, 75,78 bio-mimetic nanoparticles, 46,70 porous-silica based nanomotors, 80,60 polymeric capsules, 73 and cup-like structures. 43,68,79 Hollow Nanorobots Another type of nanomotor that has been extensively studied is the hollow particle with catalyst loaded inside. Because of its clear concept and speed, the tubular rocket structure has made a significant impact in the micro-and nanorobot field.…”

A Practical Guide to Analyzing and Reporting the Movement of Nanoscale Swimmers

“…Chemical nanoswimmers (often containing catalysts such as Pt 76,81,88 or enzymes 69,77,78,80,86,87,90 ) are the subject of the majority of nanoswimmer studies, but identifying their detailed propulsion mechanism can be challenging. For example, although it is easy to visualize a trail of bubbles left in the wake of a microscopic motor operating by bubble propulsion, it is challenging to see any bubbles created by a nanoswimmer.…”

Environmental and health risks of nanorobots: an early review

“…In addition, two-dimensional (2D) nanoswimmers were designed by the same group, consisting of 4.6 nm thick platinum-coated barium ferrite platelets. 45 Again, hydrogen peroxide decomposition was the propulsion mechanism, and steering was enabled by magnetic control of the iron in the barium ferrite. The 2D nanoswimmers showed excellent performance in catalytically removing stains on cloth.…”