Submersed micropatterned structures control active nematic flow, topology, and concentration

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Abstract
Significance: Methods to manipulate and control the dynamics of spontaneously flowing active materials are vital if these fluids are to lead to technological applications. We report the development of an easy-to-implement technique to achieve tunable, local control over active nematic films, the preeminent example of active fluids. We establish that micropatterns, fully submersed below active films, have a pronounced impact on dynamics. To showcase the adaptability of our technique, we present four proof-of-concept microstructures: trenches, undulated sinusoids, stairways, and pillars. Each illustrates a particular strength of our approach, including enacting abrupt virtual boundaries to trap topological defects, separating distinct flow states at constant levels of biochemical fuel, gently guiding self-propelled defects, and modifying local active nematic composition.

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