Micro/Nanorobotics in Environmental Water Governance: Nanoengineering Strategies for Pollution Control

Abstract

The significance of micro/nanorobotics in environmental water governance is underscored by the escalating challenge of water pollution, demanding innovative solutions for efficient and selective pollutant removal. These tiny yet powerful devices, with their ability to detect, capture, and degrade pollutants, signify a groundbreaking shift from traditional treatment methods to more precise, efficient, and sustainable approaches. This review delineates the advancements in micro/nanorobotics, emphasizing their diverse propulsion mechanisms and functionalities tailored for specific environmental tasks, including the degradation of microplastics, organic pollutants, and the inactivation of harmful microorganisms. With a focus on the integration of photocatalytic, magnetic, and self-propelled capabilities, the text highlights the potential of these robots to revolutionize water treatment processes. Furthermore, it acknowledges the challenges faced in scalability, cost-effectiveness, and environmental compatibility, urging future research toward developing more adaptable, eco-friendly, and efficient robotic systems. This review not only elucidates the current advancements in micro/nanorobotics but also charts a future course where intelligent, dynamically controlled robotic systems become central to sustainable water management, offering crucial insights and guiding the next wave of innovations in the field.