Self-propulsion of catalytic nanomotors synthesised by seeded growth of asymmetric platinum–gold nanoparticles

Abstract

Asymmetric bimetallic nanomotors are synthesised by seeded growth in solution, providing a convenient and high-throughput alternative to the usual top-down lithographic fabrication of self-propelled catalytic nanoparticles. These synthetic nanomotors catalyse H₂O₂ decomposition and exhibit enhanced diffusion that depends on fuel concentration, consistent with their chemical propulsion.