Researchers at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) have developed an innovative edible aquatic robot designed to monitor water environments and then be safely consumed by fish, thereby eliminating waste.
Sustainable Design and Functionality
To begin with, this robot utilizes the Marangoni effect—a phenomenon where variations in surface tension propel objects—to navigate across water surfaces. Specifically, a chemical reaction between citric acid and sodium bicarbonate generates carbon dioxide, which expels propylene glycol fuel, thereby propelling the robot forward. Importantly, all components are biodegradable and non-toxic, making the robot safe for aquatic life to ingest after its operational life.
Advancements in Edible Robotics
Furthermore, the development is part of EPFL’s broader “RoboFood” initiative, which aims to merge robotics with food science. Over the past few years, researchers have already created edible sensors, batteries, and actuators—steadily moving toward the concept of fully edible robots. As a result, these robots could eventually serve in various fields, including environmental monitoring, healthcare, and reducing electronic waste.
Future Implications
In the long term, this edible robot represents a significant step toward sustainable and environmentally friendly robotic solutions. By ensuring the robot can be consumed by fish, researchers directly address the issue of waste in aquatic monitoring. Additionally, the integration of edible components opens new avenues for deploying robots in sensitive ecosystems without leaving behind harmful residues.
Ultimately, these robots show how biodegradable tech can make environmental monitoring more sustainable
