Adaptive Opto-Thermal-Hydrodynamic Manipulation and Polymerization (AOTHMAP) for 4D Colloidal Patterning

Precision colloidal patterning holds great promise in constructing customizable micro/nanostructures and functional frameworks, which showcases significant application values across various fields, from intelligent manufacturing to optoelectronic integration and biofabrication. Here, a direct 4D patterning method via adaptive opto-thermal-hydrodynamic manipulation and polymerization (AOTHMAP) with single-particle resolution is reported. This approach utilizes a single laser beam to automatically transport, position, and immobilize colloidal particles through the adaptive utilization of light-induced hydrodynamic force, optical force, and photothermal polymerization. The AOTHMAP enables precise 1D, 2D, and 3D patterning of colloidal particles of varying sizes and materials, facilitating the construction of customizable microstructures with complex shapes. Furthermore, by harnessing the pH-responsive properties of hydrogel adhesives, the AOTHMAP further enables 4D patterning by dynamic alteration of patterned structures through shrinkage, restructuring, and cloaking. Notably, the AOTHMAP also enables biological patterning of functional bio-structures such as bio-micromotors. The AOTHMAP offers a simple and efficient strategy for colloidal patterning with high versatility and flexibility, which holds great promises for the construction of functional colloidal microstructures in intelligent manufacturing, as well as optoelectronic integration and biofabrication.