Repulsive torques alone trigger crystallization of constant speed active particles.

Le Blay, Marine; Morin, Alexandre · Soft Matter · 2022

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

We investigate the possibility for self-propelled particles to crystallize without reducing their intrinsic speed. We illuminate how, in the absence of any force, the competition between self-propulsion and repulsive torques determines the macroscopic phases of constant-speed active particles. This minimal model expands upon existing approaches for an improved understanding of crystallization of active matter.