Reticular Chemistry for Next-Generation Micro-/Nanoswimmers: Modular Construction and Dynamic Functionality

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Chemistry

Background:

• Reticular chemistry offers modularity for designing micro- and nanoswimmers.
• Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), covalent organic frameworks (COFs), and hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks (HOFs) are key reticular materials.
• Integrating motility and functionality in these frameworks presents significant challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize construction strategies for reticular framework-based micro- and nanoswimmers.
• To explore module-integration processes and structure-performance relationships.
• To highlight applications in biomedical delivery, environmental remediation, and sensing.

Main Methods:

• Review of cutting-edge examples of reticular swimmers.
• Analysis of integration approaches from molecular to interfacial levels.
• Examination of how spatial integration affects fuel accessibility, product release, and motion control.

Main Results:

• Motility can be encoded within framework structures or introduced via motor units.
• Controllable motion is achieved through regulation of fuel accessibility, product release, and interfacial asymmetry.
• Engine-framework organization enhances performance in delivery, remediation, and sensing applications.

Conclusions:

• Reticular chemistry provides a versatile platform for developing functional microrobotic systems.
• Further development is needed to address challenges in programmability, adaptability, and operational lifetime.
• Emerging opportunities lie in creating sophisticated, application-ready reticular microrobots.