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Synergistic chemomechanical dynamics of feedback-controlled microreactors
Sebastian Milster1, Abeer Darwish1, Nils Göth1
1Applied Theoretical Physics - Computational Physics, Physikalisches Institut, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany.
Physical Review. E
|November 18, 2023
Summary
We developed feedback-controlled microreactors using polymer microgels that exhibit complex dynamic behaviors. These "colloidal neurons" mimic neuronal dynamics for adaptive material design.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Biomimetic Systems
Background:
- Controlling chemomechanical dynamics in microgels is crucial for advanced materials.
- Adaptive and biomimetic materials require precise microreactor control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a minimalistic model of feedback-controlled microreactors.
- To explore the coupling between polymer phase transitions and permeability for chemical conversion.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a hysteretic polymer volume phase transition.
- Investigated volume-controlled permeability for internal chemical conversion.
- Modeled dynamics using FitzHugh-Nagumo equations.
Main Results:
- Categorized regimes including mono/bistability, excitability, and oscillations.
- Demonstrated tunable amplitude in sustained oscillatory states.
- Identified microgel design parameters influencing system behavior.
Conclusions:
- Developed a
- colloidal neuron
- model system.
- Provided bifurcation diagrams as a guide for experimental synthesis of adaptive microgels.
