2025 AIChE Annual Meeting

(473d) Coordinated Motion of Magnetic Janus Particle Microroller Swarms

Authors

James Gilchrist - Presenter, Lehigh University
John Riffle, Lehigh University
Genevieve Powell, Lehigh University
Tyler Richardson, Lehigh University
Olivia Percaccio, Lehigh University
Noah Tobin, Lehigh University
This work investigates the granular-like behavior of dense systems of microrollers that are responding to rotating magnetic fields. Microrollers also flow, segregate, and fluidize with kinematics similar to those found in granular systems. In this work, a granular system of 50 micron ferromagnetic Janus particles is prepared. These responsive Janus particles are rotated through the application of magnetic torque by an external rotating magnetic field resulting in swarming behavior that allows determination of their kinematics for more transport through complex geometries. In the geometry explored, their swarming behavior follows Archimedes spirals and their local kinematics follows granular behavior. Swarming to one location and then directed to swarming to another location allows further control and determination of their coordinated motion. These swarms are also directed through 3D printed mazes to demonstrate how they move along walls and together to deliver a cargo.