Faculty, Staff and Student Publications

Language

English

Publication Date

7-15-2025

Journal

ACS Nano Journal

DOI

10.1021/acsnano.5c03911

PMID

40577644

PMCID

PMC12269370

PubMedCentral® Posted Date

6-27-2025

PubMedCentral® Full Text Version

Post-print

Abstract

Inspired by Richard Feynman’s 1959 lecture and the 1966 film Fantastic Voyage, the field of micro/nanorobots has evolved from science fiction to reality, with significant advancements in biomedical and environmental applications. Despite the rapid progress, the deployment of functional micro/nanorobots remains limited. This review of the technology roadmap identifies key challenges hindering their widespread use, focusing on propulsion mechanisms, fundamental theoretical aspects, collective behavior, material design, and embodied intelligence. We explore the current state of micro/nanorobot technology, with an emphasis on applications in biomedicine, environmental remediation, analytical sensing, and other industrial technological aspects. Additionally, we analyze issues related to scaling up production, commercialization, and regulatory frameworks that are crucial for transitioning from research to practical applications. We also emphasize the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to address both technical and nontechnical challenges, such as sustainability, ethics, and business considerations. Finally, we propose a roadmap for future research to accelerate the development of micro/nanorobots, positioning them as essential tools for addressing grand challenges and enhancing the quality of life.

Keywords

Nanotechnology, Robotics, Humans, micro/nanorobots, smart materials, propulsion, functionality, intelligence, collective behavior, nanotechnology, technological translation

Published Open-Access

yes

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