Shape Engineering of TiO2 Microrobots for "On-the-Fly" Optical Brake

journal article in Web of Science

English

Hybrid microrobots have recently attracted attention due to their ability to combine different energy sources and/or external stimuli for propulsion and performing desired tasks. Despite progresses in the past, on-demand speed modulation for hybrid microrobots has not been analyzed in detail. Herein, the influence of surface properties and crystallite size on the propulsion mechanism of Pt/TiO2 chemical/light-driven hybrid microrobots is investigated. The morphology of urchin-like Pt/TiO2 microrobots leads to "on-the-fly" optical brake behavior under UV irradiation. In contrast, smooth Pt/TiO2 microrobots demonstrate accelerated motion in the same conditions. The comparison between two types of microrobots also indicates the significance of a high surface area and a high crystallite size to increase their speed. The results demonstrate the profound impact of surface features for next-generation smart micro/nanorobots with on-demand reaction capability in dynamically changing environments.

chemical propulsion; electrophoresis; janus microrobots; micromotors; self-propelled microrobots; UV light

ORAL, Ç.; USSIA, M.; YAVUZ, D.; PUMERA, M.

1. 3. 2022

WILEY-V C H VERLAG GMBH

WEINHEIM

1613-6829

Small

18

10

Federal Republic of Germany

21076271-6

2106271-6

6

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/smll.202106271