Researchers from Seoul National University and other institutions have developed a liquid metal robot that can split into smaller droplets, merge back together, and navigate through narrow gaps. The robot is made of a gallium-based alloy with magnetic particles, allowing it to be controlled by external magnetic fields.
In experiments, the robot demonstrated the ability to move through obstacles as small as 1.5 millimeters, change shape, and even transport objects. The team published their findings in the journal Science Advances in 2025, showing the robot's potential for applications in targeted drug delivery and micro-engineering.
Lead researcher Professor Kim Seung-hyun stated, 'This robot mimics the behavior of living cells, such as amoebas, which can change shape and move through tight spaces.' The robot's magnetic control allows precise manipulation without direct contact.
The technology is still in early stages, but researchers hope it could one day be used in medical procedures to deliver drugs to specific areas or to clear blockages in small tubes. Further development is needed to ensure safety and reliability in biological environments.
