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arXiv · 1606.08680

Realization of the Najafi-Golestanian microswimmer

Galien Grosjean·Maxime Hubert·Guillaume Lagubeau·Nicolas Vandewalle
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Abstract

A paradigmatic microswimmer is the three-linked-spheres model, which follows a minimalist approach for propulsion by shape shifting. As such, it has been the subject of numerous analytical and numerical studies. In this Rapid Communication, an experimental three-linked-spheres swimmer is created by self-assembling ferromagnetic particles at an air-water interface. It is powered by a uniform oscillating magnetic field. A model, using two harmonic oscillators, reproduces the experimental findings. Because the model remains general, the same approach could be used to design a variety of efficient microswimmers.

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Galien Grosjean, Maxime Hubert, Guillaume Lagubeau, Nicolas Vandewalle. 2016-06-28. Realization of the Najafi-Golestanian microswimmer. https://doi.org/10.1103/physreve.94.021101

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