Chinese Researchers Develop 3D Microrobot in the Shape of a Hand
A team of Chinese researchers has developed a three-dimensional microrobot in the shape of a hand, with a diameter of 40 micrometers, which is smaller than the diameter of a human hair. This microrobot is capable of performing precise movements such as grasping, transporting, and releasing particles or cells, according to a research article published in the International Journal of Ultra-Precision Engineering.
Importance of Microrobots in Medicine
Microrobots play a crucial role in early diagnosis and precision medicine, given the increasing demand for controllability in biomedicine and micro-manipulation. The researchers from the Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry of the Chinese Academy of Sciences proposed the creation of a multi-material and modular microrobot in the shape of a hand, based on femtosecond laser direct writing technology. This technology features a pH-sensitive capture module and a magnetism-sensitive transport module.
How the Microrobot Works
When using the microrobot, the researchers first placed it in a liquid medium. As the surrounding pH value changes, the "palm" of the robot opens or closes like flower petals, according to the Academy. This is an intelligent stimulation response similar to a person's hand instinctively withdrawing from hot water. Guided by a magnetic field, the robot can avoid obstacles and target molecules or cells. By detecting localized acidity, the robot "closes its palm" to secure surrounding elements.
Potential Applications of the Microrobot
The researchers expect the microrobot to be used for cell control, localized drug administration for precision therapy, as well as in the field of environmental treatment. The development of this microrobot represents a significant breakthrough in the field of microrobotics and has the potential to revolutionize various industries, including medicine and environmental science.
