Dynamic Properties and Propulsion Mechanisms of Magnetoelectric Core-Shell Nanocomposites in Bio-Cellular Microfluidic Medium

Our previous work on magnetoelectric nanocomposites composed of nanostructure formed by a magnetic core (CoFe₂O₄) and a ferroelectric shell (BaTiO₃) has demonstrated their nanorobotic or nanovehicular functionalities, which has significant potential in bio-cellular applications. This presentation reports experimental study conducted by off-axis electron holography measurements and by in-vitro microscopic observations of MENVs’ propulsion under ac magnetic field, which enabled further understanding of the underline mechanisms for their motion as well as its controllability. Single crystalline CoFe₂O₄-BaTiO₃ nanocomposites fabricated were shown with controllable surface potential and mutually perpendicular directions of electric field and magnetic poles. Under oscillating magnetic field excitation, these magnetoelectric nanocomposites generate oscillating surface electric charges and attain directional propelling motion in fluidic medium due to the Lorentz forces. We also report that their movement can be dynamically controlled with targeted cell-selectivity and avoidance of non-targeted cells, and their speed accelerated along their propulsion path.