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Updated: Feb 1, 2026

Correlative Light- and Electron Microscopy Using Quantum Dot Nanoparticles
Published on: August 7, 2016
Multi-Light-Responsive Quantum Dot Sensitized Hybrid Micromotors with Dual-Mode Propulsion
Roberto María Hormigos1, Beatriz Jurado Sánchez1, Alberto Escarpa1
1Department of Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry and Chemical Engineering and Chemical Research Institute "Andres M. Del Rio", University of Alcalá, Madrid, Spain.
Abstract:
CdS quantum dots/C60 tubular micromotors with chemical/multi-light-controlled propulsion and "on-the-fly" acceleration capabilities are described. In situ growth of CdS quantum dots on the outer fullerene layer imparts this layer with light-responsive properties in connection to inner Pt, Pd or MnO2 layers. This is the first time that visible light is used to drive bubble-propelled tubular micromotors. The micromotors exhibit a broad absorption range from 320 to 670 nm and can be wirelessly controlled by modulating light intensity and peroxide concentration. The built-in accelerating optical system allows for the control of the velocity over the entire UV/Vis light spectra by modulating the catalyst surface chemistry. The light-responsive properties have been also exploited to accelerate the chemical dealloying and propulsion of micromotors containing a Cu/Pd layer. Such dual operated hybrid micromotors hold considerable promise for designing smart micromachines for on-demand operations, motion-based sensing, and enhanced cargo transportation.
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What is a Mode?
There can be more than one mode in a data set if multiple values have the same highest frequency. For instance, suppose that the Statistics exam scores of 20 students are: 50; 53; 59; 59; 63; 63; 72; 72; 72; 72; 72; 76; 78; 81; 83; 84; 84; 84; 90; 93. Here, the mode is 72, as it occurs most frequently, five times.
A data set with two modes is called bimodal. For example,...
Hybrid Zones

