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Updated: Sep 21, 2025
08:37
Forming, Confining, and Observing Microtubule-Based Active Nematics
Published on: January 13, 2023
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Active transformations of topological structures in light-driven nematic disclination networks
Jinghua Jiang1,2, Kamal Ranabhat2, Xinyu Wang3
1Department of Physics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China.
Summary
We developed a surface-patterned system to control topological defects in active nematics. Light irradiation triggers programmable transformations of these defects, enabling new applications.
Area of Science:
- Soft matter physics
- Materials science
- Non-equilibrium systems
Background:
- Topological defects are crucial for applications like self-assembly and photonic devices.
- Controlling defect motion in active nematics is challenging due to their non-equilibrium nature.
Purpose of the Study:
- To engineer a system for controlled active transformation of topological defects.
- To investigate light-induced defect dynamics in patterned active nematics.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of surface-patterned substrates for periodic 3D disclinations.
- Light irradiation to excite defect transformations.
- Continuum simulations to model defect behavior.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated light-induced, programmable transformations of topological defects.
- Observed bending, breaking, and relinking events of disclinations.
- Validated simulation accuracy in recapitulating defect dynamics.
Conclusions:
- Surface patterning offers a method to control topological defect behavior.
- Light-activated transformations provide a pathway for engineered defect dynamics.
- This work opens avenues for novel active materials and devices.
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