Nano/Microrobots Meet Electrochemistry

Abstract

1 of 26) 1604759 the flow of electrons in such a "fuel cell", leading to self-electrophoretic motion. In the same frame, electrochemical techniques such as electrodeposition, offers a precise and low cost option for the fabrication of these multi-component microand nanostructured objects. Additionally, electrochemistry and electric fields can be used for controlling the motion of these nano/micro or macrorobots. These selfpropelling nano-and microrobots can enhance electrochemical sensing, which in turn can be used to detect motion of the robots. Furthermore, the microrobots themselves can be utilized as active parts of electrochemical and electrical energy generation devices. While a general coverage of the fabrication of nano/micromotors has been accomplished, [2,15,16] an in-depth discussion of the central role of electrochemistry from the electrosynthesis of these nano/microdevices, electrochemical principles behind their operations, to the application stage is found wanting. The flow of electrons vis-à-vis the locomotion of nano/microparticles is an integral component in order for movement in the miniaturized scale to occur. Here, we provide a review of this intimate relationship between electrochemistry and nano/ microrobots.In this article, we highlight the role of electrochemistry in synthesizing materials for self-powered nano/microdevices, the aspect of charge transfer and changes in electrochemical potentials for locomotion, control of self-propelled motion using electrochemistry and electric fields, possible applications in electrochemical sensing and energy generation using nano/ microscale motion. The arrangement of the review is built from a bottom-up approach. Namely, they will be divided into: (i) Fabrication of nano/microrobot by electrochemical methods, (ii) Electrochemically powered nano/microrobots based on self-electrophoresis, (iii) Control of nano/microrobot motion through electrochemistry and electric fields and (iv) Applications of nano/microrobots in electrochemical sensing, mixing and energy generation. Fabrication of Nano/Microrobot by Electrochemical MethodsThe electrochemical methods represent a versatile way for producing nano/microscale robots using simple experimental procedures, low-cost equipment and reagents, while being easy Artificial autonomous self-propelled nano and microrobots are an important part of contemporary technology. They are typically self-powered, taking chemical energy from their environment and converting it to motion. They can move in complex environments and channels, deliver cargo, perform nanosurgery, act as chemotaxis and perform sense-and-act actions. The electrochemistry is closely interwoven within this field. In the case of self-electrophoretically driven nano/microrobots, electrochemical mechanism has been the basis of power, which translates chemical energy to motion. Electrochemistry is also a major tool for the fabrication of these micro and nanodevices. Electrochemistry and electric fields can be used for the directing of nanorobots and for det...

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