Usually, robots are powered by batteries or plugged into the mains through electrical outlets. Yet researchers have recently succeeded in making a microrobot work with another source of energy: methanol.
According to the study published in the magazine “Science”, this type of alcohol, commonly used in solvents and antifreeze, is an ideal fuel since it can hold more energy than a battery for the same volume, especially on a small scale.
Find out more: A mini-robot “beetle” that moves without battery
Called “RoBeetle” (note: contraction of the words robot and beetle in English), the robot is 15 millimeters and looks like a tiny insect.
Researchers are heavily focused on developing autonomous microrobots that could serve as artificial pollinators for plants or as tools in complex surgeries.
How does he move?
The robot contains nickel-titanium wires coated with platinum powder which accelerate the combustion of the methanol vapor.
This reaction produces heat, causing the wires in the robot’s legs to shorten and, after cooling, lengthen, causing the RoBeetle to move.
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