Gauging nanoswimmer dynamics via the motion of large bodies

TL;DR

This paper introduces a straightforward method to infer nanoswimmer properties by analyzing how they influence the motion of larger tracer particles, enabling easier measurement of their dynamics.

Contribution

It proposes a model linking nanoswimmer hydrodynamics to observable tracer motion, facilitating indirect measurement of nanoswimmer features.

Findings

Derived calibration relations between tracer motion and nanoswimmer forces.

Established a method to estimate nanoswimmer force dipole moments.

Provided a practical approach for nanoswimmer characterization.

Abstract

Nanoswimmers are ubiquitous in bio- and nano-technology but are extremely challenging to measure due to their minute size and driving forces. A simple method is proposed for detecting the elusive physical features of nanoswimmers by observing how they affect the motion of much larger, easily traceable particles. Modeling the swimmers as hydrodynamic force dipoles, we find direct, easy-to-calibrate relations between the observable power spectrum and diffusivity of the tracers and the dynamic characteristics of the swimmers: their force dipole moment and correlation times.