ERA NanoSci - Directed and Autonomous Motion of Hybrid Magnetic Nano-objects

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A key step in achieving interaction or exchange between nano-objects is the ability to bring them into spatial vicinity, e. g. by inducing directed individual or cooperative motion. We develop an approach making use of the interaction between asymmetrically decorated magnetic nanoparticles and an alternating magnetic field to induce translational movement of the nanoswimmers. While the propelling drive is mainly determined by the properties of the magnetic particle head and the magnetic field parameters, the conformation, helicity, and rigidity of the polymer chains that serve as flagella in the nano-object motion may be altered by e.g. ionic strength of the solvent (polyelectrolyte), temperature (LCST/UCST polymer) or pH (polyacid). Based on similar synthetic concepts, we expect to gain access to more sophisticated structures composed of these elementary units.