Opto-Thermocapillary Nanomotors on Solid Substrates

Motors that can convert different forms of energy into mechanical work are of profound importance to the development of human societies. The evolution of micromotors has stimulated many advances in drug delivery and microrobotics for futuristic applications in biomedical engineering and nanotechnology. However, further miniaturization of motors toward the nanoscale is still challenging because of the strong Brownian motion of nanomotors in liquid environments. Here, we develop light-driven optothermocapillary nanomotors (OTNM) operated on solid substrates where the interference of Brownian motion is effectively suppressed. Specifically, by optically controlling particle-substrate interactions and thermocapillary actuation, we demonstrate the robust orbital rotation of 80 nm gold nanoparticles around a laser beam on a solid substrate. With on-chip operation capability in an ambient environment, our OTNM can serve as light-driven engines to power functional devices at the nanoscale.

Automated summary

Motors that can convert different forms of energy into mechanical work play a crucial role in the development of human societies. The miniaturization of motors to the nanoscale is challenging due to the strong Brownian motion in liquid environments. In this study, we develop light-driven optothermocapillary nanomotors that can operate on solid substrates, effectively suppressing the interference of Brownian motion. Our nanomotors demonstrate robust orbital rotation and have the capability to power functional devices at the nanoscale.