Repulsive torques alone trigger crystallization of constant speed active particles

Soft Matter. 2022 Apr 20;18(16):3120-3124. doi: 10.1039/d2sm00256f.

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.