Directed self-assembly of nanoparticles for nanomotors

We report, for the first time, the design and fabrication of a nanoparticle-based nanomotor system by directly self-assembling nanoparticles onto functional, nanometer-thin lamellae, such as polymer single crystals. Tens of thousands of judiciously selected nanoparticles (gold, iron oxide, and platinum nanoparticles) with sizes ranging from <5 to a few tens of nanometers have been introduced into a single nanomotor via directed self-assembly. The resulting nanomotor realizes functions such as autonomous movement, remote control, and cargo transportation by utilizing the advantages offered by nanoparticles, such as the small size, surface plasmon resonance, catalytic and magnetic properties. Because of the structural and functional versatility of nanoparticles, the facile fabricating procedure, and the potential for mass production, our strategy shows a key step toward the development of next generation multifunctional nanomotors.