Send us a text

Tiny batteries for tiny robots that could deliver drugs inside our bodies

Engineers at MIT have developed a miniature battery that can power cell-sized, autonomous robots for drug delivery within the human body, as well as for other purposes such as detecting leaks in gas pipelines. The batteries measure 0.1 mm in length and 0.002mm in thickness each - that’s about the same thickness as a human hair. The battery captures oxygen from the air and uses it to oxidize zinc, generating a current with a potential of up to 1 volt. This output is sufficient to power small circuits, sensors, or actuators. Professor Michael Strano, who led the team behind the work, is on the show.

Listener comments and questions

Gareth and Ania read out some of your comments, answer some of your questions and accept your criticisms dear subscriber.

The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz.

More on this week's stories:

MIT Engineers design tiny batteries for cell sized robots 

Support the show

Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz

Production Manager: Liz Tuohy

Recording and audio editing : Lansons | Team Farner

For new episodes, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or via this link:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2265960/supporters/new

Follow us on all the socials:

If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts

Contact us by email: [email protected]

Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484

Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices