One-Step Fabrication of Dual Optically/Magnetically Modulated Walnut-like Micromotor.

In this paper, we report a novel multi-responsive walnut-like micromotor consisting of polycaprolactone (PCL), iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs), and catalase, which is constructed through a one-step electrospinning method. Based on the catalytic activity and photothermal and magnetic responsiveness originating from catalase and Fe3O4 NPs, respectively, the resulting micromotor exhibits an autonomous movement in the presence of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) fuel, controlled motion velocity under light irradiation, and guided movement direction upon the application of an external magnetic field. Owing to the hydrophobic nature of the PCL polymer constituent inside the micromotor, the autonomous moving micromotor can collect spilled oil inside a solution once it collides with the oil droplet. Since the micromotor could be separated out using a magnetic field, we believe the current walnut-like micromotor holds great promise in the field of environmental remediation.