Tubular micromotors: from microjets to spermbots

Abstract

In the last decade, it was demonstrated that tubular micromotors are of potential interest for environmental, sensing, and medical applications. Even though catalytic micromotors rely on toxic fuel for their propulsion, many proof-of-concept applications were shown. Currently, the research community of micromotors is searching for biocompatible fuel solutions in order to extend the field of applications to tasks in physiological conditions. This short review gives an overview over the advances in the field of tubular micromotors explaining the different fabrication methods, fuels, and applications. The article points out the utilization of catalytic microjets in sensing, medical, and environmental applications, as well as the journey towards biocompatible tubular motors driven by motile sperm cells.