Propulsion at the nanoscale often exploits physical and chemical principles that don't apply at larger scales. Here are a few common mechanisms:
Chemical Propulsion: Chemical reactions can create movement by generating forces that push the nanodevice. For example, catalytic reactions can produce bubbles that propel nanoparticles. Electrokinetic Propulsion: Electric fields can induce movement in charged particles. Techniques like electrophoresis and dielectrophoresis manipulate particles by applying electric fields. Magnetic Propulsion: Magnetic fields can drive the movement of magnetic nanoparticles. This is particularly useful for targeted drug delivery, where magnetic fields can guide particles to specific locations within the body. Optical Propulsion: Light can be used to move particles through methods such as optical tweezers, which use focused laser beams to trap and move small objects.
