Catalytic Luminescent Polymer Micromotors With Shape-Programmed Motion

Photoactive polymers hold promise for powering micromotors by converting light into energy. However, traditional energy polymers cannot catalyze on one side of Janus structures in chemically driven micromotors because they only store and convert energy, not perform efficient photocatalysis. In this work, we introduce an indium tin oxide (ITO) conductive interlayer that functions as a dedicated charge-transfer pathway. This layer efficiently extracts photogenerated holes and spatially separates electron-hole pairs from the PFN-Br/Pt catalytic layer, thereby creating stable interfacial electric fields and ionic gradients. The combination of self-electrophoresis and self-diffusiophoresis enhances propulsion efficiency and long-term stability compared to traditional single-catalyst micromotors. The PFN-Br polymer layer also serves as a fluorescent marker, enabling stable propulsion and real-time tracking of micromotor movements. Additionally, we show that ultrasonic-assisted self-assembly can effectively shape and program these micromotors. This method enables the transition from random movement to more directed trajectories by forming single, dimeric, or trimeric assemblies, which is vital for future investigations of collective dynamics and swarm intelligence. Meanwhile, we have begun initial efforts to utilize its luminescent properties for optical signal encoding, creating opportunities for micro- and nano-scale platforms capable of UV-controlled optical signaling paired with light-driven movement.