Researchers led by the University of Bristol have developed synthetic materials that can move on their own, much like worms. These materials fall into a category called ‘active matter.’ Active matter involves substances that, unlike the usual inanimate materials like plastic or wood, can exhibit behaviors similar to living organisms. These materials contain elements that use internal energy to move by themselves.

The researchers used tiny particles known as Janus colloids, which are about one millionth of a meter in size. These particles were placed in a liquid and then exposed to a strong electric field. Using a special microscope that captures three-dimensional images, the researchers observed the particles’ behavior.

When the researchers applied the electric field, the scattered colloids joined together to form structures that looked like worms. This created a three-dimensional system of active matter.

A paper published in Physical Review Letters describe the methods and results of this study.

Potential applications to soft robotics and medicine

The researchers observed the emergence of self-driven, worm-like structures. They also developed a theory to predict and control how these synthetic worms move based on their length.

The behavior of these materials changes with density. At low densities, they form worm-like chains, but at higher densities, they create sheet-like or maze-like patterns. The researchers are now exploring further experiments and theoretical models to understand and possibly harness these materials for practical uses.

The researchers underline that, although practical uses might be years away, this discovery has potential for future applications.

It “could eventually lead to the ability to design devices that independently move different parts of themselves, or the design of swarms of particles which can search for a target which could have health applications by having specifically targeted medicines and treatments,” says researcher Tannie Liverpool in a press release issued by the University of Bristol.

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