Hydrodynamics and propulsion mechanism of self-propelled catalytic micromotors: model and experiment

• DOI: 10.1039/c4sm01070a
• Publication Date: 2014-07-09T09:04:37Z
• Authors: Longqiu Li; Jiyuan Wang; Tianlong Li; Wenping Song; Guangyu Zhang
• Keywords: Ligand cone angle; Added mass

The hydrodynamic behavior and propulsion mechanism of self-propelled micromotors are studied theoretically experimentally. A model to describe bubble growth detachment is proposed investigate the a conical tubular catalytic micromotor considering geometric asymmetry buoyancy force. force caused by surface against fluid driving for motion. Also, plays primary role in detachment. effect geometrical parameters on velocity drag presented. radius ratio investigated different radii determine its during ejection. average found be strongly dependent semi-cone angle, expelling frequency ratio. angle has significant micromotors. predicted results compared already existing experimental data cylindrical (semi-cone δ = 0°) good agreement between theoretical calculation results. This provides profound explanation can used optimize design biomedical environmental applications.