Researchers are developing microrobots to remove microplastics

Microplastics have been a problem for humans and nature for a long time. More and more research has shown the catastrophic effects on our planet in the past, but the small particles are still used in many products. Researchers have now developed microrobots that could tackle the problem.

The little robots were developed by scientists from the University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague. These are just the size of a red blood cell and use solar energy to move around in the water. If these microplastics are found, they will break down the small particles.

In an initial concept, the microrobots made their way through a labyrinth and were able to successfully decompose synthetic microplastic particles. Initial tests in the sea have yet to show whether the technology can also be used in practice. It is high time that the particles, which are usually less than 5 millimeters long, bind heavy metals and pollutants and are already entering our food.

Own opinion:

Along with climate change, microplastics are and will remain one of the greatest problems of our generation. The small particles are initially small miracle helpers (for example in fabric softeners), but after use they usually end up in nature unfiltered. It is up to us to filter the previous pollution out of nature and thus to leave a better living space for all living beings.

Via The Next Web