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Trapping of deformable active particles by a periodic background potential
Jia-Jian Li1, Rui-Xue Guo1, Bao-Quan Ai1
1Guangdong Basic Research Center of Excellence for Structure and Fundamental Interactions of Matter, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Quantum Engineering and Quantum Materials, School of Physics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China and Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Quantum Matter, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China.
This study numerically investigates active particle trapping on periodic substrates. Findings reveal factors influencing trapping and suggest methods for sorting particles by rigidity.
Area of Science:
- Soft matter physics
- Active matter physics
- Statistical mechanics
Background:
- Active particles interacting with periodic substrates exhibit complex dynamic behaviors like trapping and sorting.
- Understanding these interactions is crucial for designing novel particle manipulation and separation techniques.
Purpose of the Study:
- To numerically investigate the trapping dynamics of soft, deformable active particles on a periodic potential substrate.
- To identify key parameters influencing particle trapping and escapement.
- To explore potential applications in sorting active particles based on their properties.
Main Methods:
- Numerical simulations were employed to model the behavior of soft, deformable particles.
- The study systematically varied parameters such as relative trap size, self-propelled velocity, shape parameters, particle-to-trap ratio, and translational diffusion.
- Experimental verification is possible using optical tweezers.
Main Results:
- Consistent trapping of all particles was achieved within specific parameter ranges.
- Stable trapping was observed at median relative trap sizes.
- Increased self-propelled velocity, shape parameter, and translational diffusion promoted particle escapement.
- Higher particle-to-trap ratios reduced the fraction of trapped particles.
- Rigid particles showed distinct trapping behavior related to trap size and particle area ratios.
Conclusions:
- The study elucidates the influence of various parameters on the trapping of deformable active particles.
- Median relative trap sizes are optimal for stable trapping.
- Particle properties like shape and rigidity significantly affect trapping and sorting outcomes.
- This research offers insights for controlling active particle dynamics and proposes a novel method for sorting particles based on rigidity.
