Release from Nanospaces

Biological motors routinely convert chemical energy into mechanical power with great efficiency by utilizing non-equilibrium conditions such as concentration gradients. Taking elegant biological systems as inspiration, we have developed intelligent new artificial motors by loading a MOF with peptide ‘fuel’, the release of which creates the driving force of the motor. Reorganization of hydrophobic peptides leaving the nanopores can create a large surface-tension gradient around the MOF, leading to the propulsion of the MOF particles for an extended time. This demonstration shows a new application of MOFs and opens the door towards mimicking motile life, like bacteria.

Swimming MOF motor enabled by release of guest molecules