Kai Feng, Ling Chen, Xinle Zhang, Jiang Gong*, Jinping Qu, Ran Niu*

Collective behaviors of isotropic micromotors: from assembly to reconstruction and motion control under external field

Nanomaterials (2023) Accept. (IF2023 = 5.3)

Swarms of self-propelled micromotors can mimic the processes of natural systems and construct artificial intelligent materials to perform complex collective behaviors. Compared to self-propelled Janus micromotors, the isotropic colloid motors, also called micromotors or microswimmers, have advantages in self-assembly to form micromotor swarms, which are efficient in resistance to external disturbance and delivery of large quantity of cargos. In this minireview, we summarize the fundamental principles and interactions for the assembly of isotropic active particles to generate micromotor swarms. The recent discoveries based on either catalytic or external physical field stimulated micromotor swarms are also presented. Then the strategy for reconstruction and motion control of micromotor swarms in complex environment, including narrow channels, maze, raised obstacles and high steps/low gaps, is summarized. Finally, we outlook the future directions of micromotor swarms and the remaining challenges and opportunities.