Friday, 7th October 2005 (4373 views)

Researchers at the University of Colorado at Boulder have created a computer-generated model of a molecular rotor able to rotate at a range of speeds, reports Physorg.

Using a gold substrate surface, the synthetic molecule can be made to move by alterations in a surrounding electrical field and due to the gold's frictional drag.

Oscillations in the electric field affect the two opposed electrical charges carried by the molecule on a chemical axle.

According to Professor Josef Michl from the university, this technology could help in the development of products such as chemical sensors and other switches.

The team has previously proved that molecules mounted on gold surfaces can function as molecular rotors and has now followed this with the revelation that speed within these motors can be controlled.

"The computer model tells us we will be able to manipulate the frequency of rotor revolutions by changing the strength of the outside electrical field," declared Professor Michl.

One future application of the technology could be in laser-blocking goggles; the rotor would be able to sense laser pulses and move to block them.

 

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