Aerogalnite as a biomimetic electronic nanomaterial for multifunctional applications

Abstract

We report on fabrication of three-dimensional architectures based on GaN microtubular structures (the so-called Aerogalnite or Aero-GaN) with nanoscopic thin walls which exhibit dual hydrophobic-hydrophilic behaviour. The micro-tubular structures are shown to self-organize when interacting with water to mimic the formation and functions of a cell membrane. Self-organization processes result in the formation of stretchable and self-healing waterproof rafts with impressive cargo capabilities (cargo up to 500 times heavier than the floating raft [1]). Along with this, we demonstrate self-propelled liquid marbles with exceptional mechanical robustness which may find applications as bioreactors for scalable in vitro cell growth. The physical properties of the new material based on three-dimensional GaN architectures will be presented in the context of its prospects for biomimetic applications in nano/microfluidics, biomedicine, microrobotics, electronics etc.