Self-propelled nanotools.
We describe nanoscale tools in the form of autonomous and remotely guided catalytically self-propelled InGaAs/GaAs/(Cr)Pt tubes. These rolled-up tubes with diameters in the range of 280-600 nm move in hydrogen peroxide solutions with speeds as high as 180 μm s(-1). The effective transfer of chemical energy to translational motion has allowed these tubes to perform useful tasks such as transport of cargo. Furthermore, we observed that, while cylindrically rolled-up tubes move in a straight line, asymmetrically rolled-up tubes move in a corkscrew-like trajectory, allowing these tubes to drill and embed themselves into biomaterials. Our observations suggest that shape and asymmetry can be utilized to direct the motion of catalytic nanotubes and enable mechanized functions at the nanoscale.
Institute for Integrative Nanosciences, IFW Dresden, Helmholtzstrasse 20, D-01069 Dresden, Germany.
Alexander A
AA
Solovev
Wang
W
Xi
David H
DH
Gracias
Stefan M
SM
Harazim
Christoph
C
Deneke
Samuel
S
Sanchez
Oliver G
OG
Schmidt
D001152:Arsenicals / Q000737:chemistry; D002384:Catalysis; D004058:Diffusion; D005708:Gallium / Q000737:chemistry; D007204:Indium / Q000737:chemistry; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D036103:Nanotechnology / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D043942:Nanotubes / Q000737:chemistry*; D010984:Platinum / Q000737:chemistry
D001152:Arsenicals; D007204:Indium; D010984:Platinum; D005708:Gallium