Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
599466 Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces 2014 4 Pages PDF
Abstract

•A new concept is raised: strain gradient can induce rolling of a bubble.•A simple biomimetic experiment is carried out to verify the new concept.•Theoretical model is established to find the influencing factors of rolling.

Inspired by the rolling behavior of oosperm through smooth muscle contraction of fallopian tube, a simple biomimetic experiment is devised in order to disclose the possibly mechanical transport mechanism. An interesting experimental observation demonstrates that an elastic strain gradient can be utilized to transport a soft latex bubble on a stretchable substrate by rolling. A corresponding theoretical model is established, in which an elastically three-dimensional bubble contacts adhesively on an elastic substrate subject to strain gradient. The initiation and steady-state energy release rates for such a rolling motion are achieved and analyzed. The influencing factors of rolling are found. The finding may have general implications on designing active transport systems with strain gradient.

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Related Topics
Physical Sciences and Engineering Chemical Engineering Colloid and Surface Chemistry
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