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Nature-inspired micro/nanomotors
Xiaocong Chang1,2, Yiwen Feng3, Bin Guo1
1Key Laboratory of Micro-systems and Micro-Structures Manufacturing (Harbin Institute of Technology), Ministry of Education, Harbin 150001, China.
Nanoscale
|December 22, 2021
Summary
Nature inspires micro/nanomotors with unique designs and functions. This review covers five categories of nature-inspired micro/nanomotors, highlighting their potential in various applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomimetic Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Materials Science
Background:
- Nature exhibits diverse morphologies, structures, and behaviors for survival.
- These natural adaptations offer inspiration for synthetic micro/nanomotor design.
- Micro/nanomotors are crucial for various advanced applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review diverse nature-inspired micro/nanomotors.
- To categorize these micro/nanomotors based on their natural inspiration.
- To highlight the potential applications of these engineered systems.
Main Methods:
- Categorization based on natural morphology inspiration (e.g., plants, animals).
- Categorization based on natural structure inspiration (e.g., cells, microorganisms).
- Categorization based on natural behavior inspiration (e.g., motion, swarm, communication).
Main Results:
- Micro/nanomotors inspired by natural morphology, structure, and behavior were reviewed.
- Five categories of nature-inspired micro/nanomotors were identified.
- These systems demonstrate novel morphologies, preparation methods, propulsion, and functions.
Conclusions:
- Nature-inspired micro/nanomotors offer a promising platform for innovation.
- These motors possess unique characteristics derived from natural designs.
- Broad applications are anticipated in various practical fields.
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