Scientists from Sichuan University in southwest China have introduced a remarkable solution to tackle one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time: ocean pollution. The team has developed tiny, soft robot fish designed to “eat” microplastics, offering a potential breakthrough in cleaning up the world’s oceans.
These miniature robot fish, measuring a mere 1.3 centimetres (0.5 inches) in length, are engineered to absorb microplastics from shallow waters, According to Reuter’s report. . Despite their small size, these robots are a marvel of modern engineering, capable of significant environmental impact. The project, led by Wang Yuyan, aims to extend its capabilities to deeper waters and provide real-time data on marine pollution.
“We developed such a lightweight miniaturized robot. It can be used in many ways, for example in biomedical or hazardous operations, such as a small robot that can be localized to a part of your body to help you eliminate some disease,” said Wang Yuyan.
How the Robot Fish Works
The robot fish operates through a combination of near-infrared (NIR) light and sophisticated engineering. When irradiated by light, the black robot fish flaps its fins and wiggles its body, mimicking the movement of real fish. This not only enables it to navigate through water but also allows scientists to control its movement, preventing collisions with other fish or ships.
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One of the most impressive features of these robot fish is their ability to self-heal and continue functioning even after sustaining damage. Made from polyurethane, a biocompatible material, these robots are not harmful if accidentally ingested by marine life. This makes them a safe and sustainable option for long-term deployment in the ocean.
The primary focus of the robot fish is to collect microplastics, acting as a sampling tool that can be used repeatedly. The scientists behind this innovation envision broader applications, including biomedical and hazardous operations. For instance, the technology could be adapted to target specific areas within the human body for medical treatment, showcasing its versatility and potential beyond environmental cleanup.
“We are mostly working on the collection of microplastics. It is like a sampling robot and it can be used repeatedly,” Wang explained.
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Microplastics, tiny plastic particles that result from the degradation of larger plastic waste, have become a significant environmental concern. These particles are pervasive in oceans worldwide, posing a threat to marine life and ecosystems. The innovative approach taken by the Sichuan University team represents a proactive step towards mitigating this issue.
By targeting microplastics, the robot fish contribute to a cleaner ocean, which is crucial for the health of marine biodiversity and human populations reliant on seafood. The ability to monitor and analyze pollution in real time also offers valuable insights for environmental scientists and policymakers, facilitating informed decisions on pollution control and prevention measures.
“It is of great significance to develop a robot to accurately collect and sample detrimental microplastic pollutants from the aquatic environment,” said Yuyan Wang, a researcher at the Polymer Research Institute of Sichuan University and one of the lead authors on the study. Her team’s novel invention is described in a research paper in the journal Nano Letters. “To the best of our knowledge, this is the first example of such soft robots.”