Press Release: Microscopic Innovations: Advancements in Active Matter Science Show Promise for Medicine and Environmental Solutions
University Park, PA – Researchers at Penn State, led by Assistant Professor Stewart Mallory, are making significant strides in the study of active matter—systems of self-propelled particles that could revolutionize medicine, materials science, and environmental cleanup. Mallory’s recent study, published in The Journal of Chemical Physics, addresses the longstanding mystery of how particles behave in narrow spaces, a phenomenon known as single-file diffusion (SFD).
Active matter, which includes microscopic robots designed for drug delivery or particles that decompose pollutants, relies heavily on understanding particle movement in confined environments. Mallory’s team utilized Brownian dynamics simulations to explore how athermal active Brownian particles (ABPs) navigate these tight conditions. Their findings revealed that particles initially exhibit fast, ballistic motion but gradually transition to the slower, unpredictable behavior characteristic of SFD.
The research establishes a connection between the mobility of these active particles and the compressibility of their environment. This discovery may enhance the design of micromachines used in medical applications, allowing for improved delivery of therapies.
Mallory’s work extends beyond SFD, also focusing on Phoretic Janus particles—unique particles with distinct chemical sides, enabling them to move in response to chemical signals. By modifying their surface chemistry, researchers can control their movement, which has implications for navigating complex biological or polluted environments.
The potential applications of this research are vast, from creating self-assembling materials to devising methods for cleaning microplastic pollution. Mallory envisions a future where nanoparticles deliver targeted treatments for diseases like cancer or contribute to restoring ecological balance.
As research in active matter rapidly evolves, these insights are paving the way for innovative solutions to some of society’s most pressing challenges, making it a pivotal field for ongoing study and application.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.]
