# Exploring Diffusiophoretic Micromotors in Self-Organizing Reaction-Diffusion Systems

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Florida State University (FL) · $452,542

## Abstract

With support from the Chemical Structure and Dynamics (CSD) program in the Division of Chemistry, Professor Oliver Steinbock at Florida State University is investigating the mechanisms by which the motion of nano- and micro-particles driven by concentration gradients of solutes (known as diffusiophoresis) is influenced and controlled by self-organizing reaction-diffusion patterns far from equilibrium. In many biological systems, steep gradients and active transport processes reinforce one another to enable highly organized behaviors. In contrast, this nonequilibrium coupling remains largely unexplored in chemistry, limiting opportunities for developing self-regulating materials and understanding transport phenomena in synthetic media. Professor Steinbock and his students will develop experimental model systems that combine synthetic micromotors with pattern-forming chemical reactions, such as oscillatory and Turing systems, to investigate scenarios in which particle motion and chemical self-organization coexist, disrupt each other, or give rise to emergent order. Their studies could provide important experimental insights into novel types of complex systems involving new forms of chemical self-organization, which would also inform the analysis of similar phenomena in living systems. Educational and outreach components include hands-on research opportunities for students, public science lectures for adult learners, social media engagement through art-in-STEM content, and parti

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2515818
- **Awardee organization:** Florida State University (FL)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** JF2BLNN4PJC3
- **PI:** Oliver Steinbock
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** —
- **Estimated total:** $452,542
- **Funds obligated:** $452,542
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2515818

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2515818, Exploring Diffusiophoretic Micromotors in Self-Organizing Reaction-Diffusion Systems. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2515818. Licensed CC0.

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