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2016-03-28

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Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/2445/128201

Key Parameters Controlling the Performance of Catalytic Motors

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https://doi.org/10.1063/1.4944319

Abstract

The development of autonomous micro/nanomotors driven by self-generated chemical gradients is a topic of high interest given their potential impact in medicine and environmental remediation. Although impressive functionalities of these devices have been demonstrated, a detailed understanding of the propulsion mechanism is still lacking. In this work, we perform a comprehensive numerical analysis of the key parameters governing the actuation of bimetallic catalytic micropumps. We show that the fluid motion is driven by self-generated electro-osmosis where the electric field originates by a proton current rather than by a lateral charge asymmetry inside the double layer. Hence, the surface potential and the electric field are the key parameters for setting the pumping strength and directionality. The proton flux that generates the electric field stems from the proton gradient induced by the electrochemical reactions taken place at the pump. Surprisingly the electric field and consequently the fluid flow are mainly controlled by the ionic strength and not by the conductivity of the solution, as one could have expected. We have also analyzed the influence of the chemical fuel concentration, electrochemical reaction rates, and size of the metallic structures for an optimized pump performance. Our findings cast light on the complex chemomechanical actuation of catalytic motors and provide important clues for the search, design, and optimization of novel catalytic actuators.

Subject

Nanotecnologia, Bombes de calor, Motors

Subject (English)

Nanotechnology, Heat pumps, Engines

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Articles publicats en revistes (Física de la Matèria Condensada)

Citation

ESPLANDIU, María J., AFSHAR FARNIYA, Alí and REGUERA, D. (David). Key Parameters Controlling the Performance of Catalytic Motors. Journal of Chemical Physics. 2016. Vol. 144, num. 12, pags. 124702. ISSN 0021-9606. [consulted: 17 of August of 2026]. Available at: https://hdl.handle.net/2445/128201

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