By applying entropic barriers, we present a rod separation mechanism that induces the movement of rods of different sizes in the opposite directions. This mechanism is based on the combination of the saw-tooth channel, a static force, and an oscillating driving force. The asymmetric shape of the channel and the elongated shape of the rod causesa complicated interaction effect between the rods and the channel walls which reduces the accessible configuration space for the rods and leads to entropic free-energy effects.

• Received 12 May 2020
• Accepted 9 July 2020

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevE.102.012610