Accumulation of nematic active particles on surfaces with free convection

Abstract

This paper investigates the dynamics of nematic active Brownian particles on a disk surface under free convection flow. The study reveals the complex interplay between the particles and the flow, which alters the flow’s symmetry and the aggregate’s intensity and direction on the surface. The research highlights the changes in moment due to convective flow and particle scattering, along with broad contact interaction, which enable nematic particles to aggregate more efficiently than their spherical counterparts. The paper also discusses the potential to direct aggregation by adjusting flow rates.