3 Tiny Robots That Changed The World, Some Can Break Down Plastic!

Illustration of nano technology robot (Big Data Analytic News)

YOGYAKARTA – When we imagine a robot in the future, what usually appears is a human-like figure or a larger one. Not without reason, considering that this image is what movies, anime, and other content give when talking about this technology.

In fact, robots can come in various shapes and sizes. From the largest to the very small. So you will find it difficult to see it with the naked eye.

This type is known as a microscopic robot. Although small, its role is expected to get bigger in the future. Want to know what types of microscopic robots are now available? Check out the descriptions summarized by the VOI team from the following sources.

SONOBOT, Nanobot to Fight Cancer

The defense system of cancer cells is to move without being identified in the human body. Usually, when there is a foreign object that attacks the human body, the immune system will immediately react and deal with it as quickly as possible. But, not so with cancer cells.

Based on its nature, there are two theories against cancer. Namely by marking it so that the human body can recognize and attack, or send agents to fight it. Now there is nano technology that has both properties.

As Phys reports, scientists are designing a mechanism for using nanobots to fight cancer cells. The nanobot is 10 times smaller than a red blood cell, so scientists can't use a remote to move it.

Therefore, the study, named SONOBOTS, utilizes ultrasound waves to manipulate the movement of nanobots carrying cancer drugs.

MANiACs, Nanobots tasked with delivering drugs to the spine

In the medical world, the use of nano robots is not only to fight cancer. There are also scientists who are developing nano robotic mechanisms to deliver drugs to sensitive areas -such as the nervous system.

According to a report by the World Economic Forum, scientists are experimenting with guiding nanorobots using a magnetic field generated by the body. If successful, this experiment allows distribution of the drug to a specific location with a high degree of accuracy.

By scientists, these nano robots were given the name "Magnetically Aligned Nanorods in Alginate Capsules" or MANiACs for short. The name may be like the character in the Cyberpunk game, but its function can make the treatment of diseases related to the spine safer.

Microrobot, Nano Robot Capable of Destroying Plastic

Plastic may have been a flagship product when it was first discovered. However, now plastic has become one of nature's enemies. Plastic waste pollution is one of the things that triggers the destruction of nature. It's no secret that plastic pollution is already in small and invisible forms called microplastics.

Although it looks trivial, microplastics can enter the bodies of animals and humans. Then, it can clog organs and cause damage to life. Because of its small size, it makes it difficult for humans to clean or handle it.

However, the nightmare was not long in coming. According to a Scientific America report, this robot named Microrobot has been tested for its capabilities. The results show that this nanorobot is successful in breaking down microplastics.

This robot is the size of a bacterium and can move on its own automatically. When the Microrobot encounters microplastics, the robot will automatically stick to it and help break it down.

Well, that's 3 nano robots that are expected to change the world. Not the shape of the world. But, because of its function, it will certainly make human life more quality. Both in terms of health and nature.