Nanoscale motors operate based on different mechanisms, generally categorized into three main types: biochemical, catalytic, and external field-driven.
- Biochemical motors: These utilize biological processes such as ATP hydrolysis to produce motion. - Catalytic motors: These often involve chemical reactions, like the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, to generate thrust. - External field-driven motors: These are propelled by external stimuli such as magnetic, electric, or light fields.