Dynamic assembly of active colloids: theory and simulation

TL;DR

This paper reviews recent theoretical and simulation advances in understanding the dynamic assembly and phase behavior of active colloids, emphasizing non-equilibrium phenomena driven by energy-consuming motion.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of how numerical and analytical methods have elucidated the role of shape, hydrodynamics, and motility in active colloid assembly.

Findings

Understanding of motility-induced phase separation

Impact of shape anisotropy on assembly patterns

Role of hydrodynamics in active colloid dynamics

Abstract

Because of consuming energy to drive their motion, systems of active colloids are intrinsically out of equilibrium. In the past decade, a variety of intriguing dynamic patterns have been observed in systems of active colloids, and they offer a new platform for studying non-equilibrium physics, in which computer simulation and analytical theory have played an important role. Here we review the recent progress in understanding the dynamic assembly of active colloids by using numerical and analytical tools. We review the progress in understanding the motility induced phase separation in the past decade, followed by the discussion on the effect of shape anisotropy and hydrodynamics on the dynamic assembly of active colloids.