Scientists from the University of Groningen have a molecule developed by the rotation of the four ‘legs’ forward movement. The ‘vehicle’ at the nanoscale is driven by electric energy.
In 1999, developed the Groningen chemist Ben Feringa and his research team made a molecule that was powered by light. The molecule consisted of a static part and a rotating part that worked as a screw or propeller. The scientist has now succeeded on the basis of his invention a four-wheel driven vehicle on the molecular level.
The nanovoertuig consists of an elongated body in which four paddles are attached to. With the tip of a scanning tunnel microscope knew the researchers, the molecule of electricity. The electrons change the shape of the straps, causing it to rotate and the vehicle is moving.
The project, which, among others, also employees of the University of Twente were involved, knew the vehicle on a copper layer in a vacuum controlled and continue to move. With ten ‘steps’ would be the vehicle 6 nanometres can pass.
The demonstration is a major step in the development of nanomachines seen. Feringa will now focus on the better control of the steering. His research is adorned on the cover of the scientific journal Nature last week.
