Geometry‐Programmable Light‐Driven Silicon Microrobots

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Authors: L. D. Liu, Rong Huang, Wanyuan Li, Jingsong Yao, Dapeng Lei, Guang Yang, Zhuochen Huang, Li Chen, Hao Sun, Ze Xiong, Jizhuang Wang, Jinyao Tang
+1 more D. Y. Li
Cited by: 2
References: 62

Abstract

Light-driven micro/nanorobots (LMNRs) offer on-demand propulsion governed by light direction, wavelength, and polarization, yet their architectures and navigation behaviors have been constrained by limited fabrication strategies. Here, we present a general and scalable strategy for geometry-programmable silicon LMNRs based on plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition. This approach yields libraries of silicon microrobots with deterministically tailored 0D, 1D, 2D, and 3D geometries, greatly expanding the accessible design space. Under visible and near-infrared illumination, the LMNRs exhibit efficient propulsion and precise, light-programmable trajectories, with guidance further augmented by magnetic steering. Surface functionalization with bacteriophages imparts species-selective bacterial capture, enabling targeted biointeractions. By integrating structural programmability, multimodal actuation, and bioselective interfaces in a silicon platform, this work establishes a versatile foundation for multifunctional LMNRs, paving the way for micro/nanorobotic applications in precision therapy, environmental monitoring, and micro/nano-manufacturing.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Micro and Nano Robotics Spacecraft Dynamics and Control Advanced Materials and Mechanics

Publication details

Journal / source
Advanced Materials
Publisher
Wiley
Volume
38
Issue
20
Pages
e22384–e22384
Publication date
12 March 2026
Language
EN