Faculty Distinguished Lecture - Nanomachines: Designs and Applications

Abstract
The remarkable performance of biomotors is inspiring scientists to create synthetic nanoscale machines that mimic the function of these amazing natural systems. This presentation will discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the design and operation of artificial nanoscale motors and demonstrate their prospects for diverse biomedical applications. Particular attention will be given to recent advances in catalytic microtube motors propelled by the catalytic decomposition of a chemical fuel. Such micro- and nanoscale rockets offer impressive capabilities, including remarkable speeds, large cargo-towing forces, precise motion controls, and dynamic self-assembly, which have paved the way for designing multifunctional and intelligent nanoscale machines. These multipurpose nanoscale shuttles can propel and function in complex real-life media, actively transporting and releasing therapeutic payloads and remediation agents for diverse biomedical and environmental applications. The challenges of designing efficient nanororockets will be discussed along with potential applications ranging from drug delivery, target isolation, surface patterning or environmental remediation.