Optically Triggered Nanoscale Plasmonic Dynamite

Photons as energy carriers are clean and abundant, which can be conveniently applied for nanoactuation but the response is usually slow with very low energy efficiency/density. Here, we underpin the concept of robust nanoscale plasmonic dynamite by incorporating fullerene (C-60). The Au@C-60 core-shell nanoparticles can be triggered to explode in nanoscale with synergy of plasmon-enhanced photochemical and photothermal effects. It is suggested that a sensible amount of CO2 was generated and pressurized in nanometric volume in an extremely short time scale (similar to ns), which triggers the nanoexplosion, rendering the ejection of Au NPs at the speed over 300 m/s. The ejection generates extremely large local forces (similar to 1 mu N) with thermomechanical energy efficiency up to similar to 30%, which is demonstrated as a powerful nanoengine for controlled mobilization of micro-objects on solid surfaces. Such nanoscale plasmonic dynamite is highly exploitable for different types of nanomachines, which provides a powerful energy source for nanoactuation and nanomigration.

Automated summary

Photons can be used as clean and abundant energy carriers for nanoactuation, but the response is often slow and energy efficiency is low. This study introduces the concept of robust nanoscale plasmonic dynamite using fullerene (C-60) incorporated nanoparticles, which can explode in nanoscale with the help of plasmon-enhanced photochemical and photothermal effects. This nanoexplosion generates powerful forces and high thermomechanical energy efficiency, making it a promising nanoengine for controlled mobilization of micro-objects on solid surfaces. Such nanoscale plasmonic dynamite can be utilized in various types of nanomachines, providing a powerful energy source for nanoactuation and nanomigration.