A fast and powerful swimming microrobot with a serrated tail enhanced propulsion interface

Abstract

We demonstrate the use of a swimming microrobot with a serrated tail in the propulsion region to enhance reaction interfaces. A 3D printed tail with multiple catalytic channels and nanointerfaces could reinforce the microrobot, allowing it to reach swimming speeds of ∼1 mm s⁻¹ and enabling it to transport objects with a weight 6500 times that of itself. This research represents a new concept in swimming microrobot design and is expected to benefit a wide range of engineering fields.