Smart Structures and Systems

Volume 7, Number 3, 2011, pages 199-211

DOI: 10.12989/sss.2011.7.3.199

Design rules for creating sensing and self-actuating microcapsules

German V. Kolmakov, Victor V. Yashin and Anna C. Balazs

Abstract

Using computational modeling, we design a pair of biomimetic microcapsules that exploit chemical mechanisms to communicate and alter their local environment. As a result, these synthetic objects can undergo autonomous, directed motion. In the simulations, signaling microcapsules release

Key Words

computer modeling; microcapsules; artificial cells; self-propelled particles; soft active materials.

Address

German V. Kolmakov, Victor V. Yashin and Anna C. Balazs : Chemical Engineering Department, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA