This research addresses how objects move in confined spaces, which is particularly relevant for applications like drug delivery within the human body.

Understanding the behavior of microscopic swimmers can lead to improved drug delivery systems, offering faster and more reliable therapies.

Mallory's work aims to enhance self-assembly processes at the microscale, using self-propelled particles to construct complex structures.

One promising application involves nanoparticles that can swim toward cancer cells, potentially delivering drugs directly to tumors.

Overall, Mallory's lab continues to develop theories and computational models to advance the understanding of microscale devices for drug delivery and other applications.

Stewart Mallory, an assistant professor at Penn State, leads a research group focused on the behavior of self-propelled microscopic particles, particularly studying a phenomenon known as single-file diffusion (SFD).

Mallory's recent study published in The Journal of Chemical Physics reveals how the movement of particles changes when squeezed into narrow spaces, highlighting the significance of SFD for future micromachines.

The research derived an equation to predict particle movement in narrow channels, which is crucial for understanding the behavior of microscopic robots.

In addition to SFD, Mallory's team is studying the control of Phoretic Janus particles, which have two chemically different sides that enable self-propulsion through liquids.

By adjusting the surface chemistry of these Janus particles, researchers can influence their movement in response to chemical signals, akin to steering a tiny vehicle.

Microscopic robots, driven by active matter principles, are being explored for applications in medicine, materials science, and environmental cleanup.

Active matter research could also address environmental challenges, with nanoparticles designed to break down pollutants and target cancer cells through their unique movement.