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Three-dimensional microprinting anisotropic and deformable active matter

Mengshi Wei and Daniela J. Kraft*

  • Huygens-Kamerlingh Onnes Laboratory, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9504, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands

  • *Contact author: kraft@physics.leidenuniv.nl
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Phys. Rev. E 114, 041001 – Published 2 October, 2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/vvnp-l1sb

Abstract

Active colloidal particles are a versatile model system for exploring nonequilibrium physics in motile matter. To date, most experimental realizations have focused on spherical particles, largely due to fabrication constraints. However, theoretical and computational studies have long predicted that particle anisotropy and flexibility can dramatically enrich single-particle dynamics, interparticle interactions, and emergent collective behavior. Here, we highlight recent advances in the fabrication of anisotropic active particles and architectures enabled by the unprecedented design freedom of three-dimensional microprinting. We discuss how additive manufacturing is expanding the accessible parameter space of active soft matter, allowing precise control over shape, location of active forces, and functionality at the microscale. These advances enable the development of new model platforms for uncovering fundamental principles of active and soft matter, and simultaneously pave the way toward microrobotic systems with programmable dynamics and emergent functionalities.

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Outline

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Phys. Rev. E 114, 041001– Published 2 October, 2026
  • Received 8 April 2026
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