What special ability do the soft robots developed by Seoul National University in 2024 have?
Imagine a robot that completes its mission and then vanishes without a trace. This isn't science fiction—it's the latest innovation in soft robotics.
Researchers at Seoul National University have developed soft robots capable of self-destruction after completing tasks.These robots are constructed from a special silicone material infused with a compound called diphenyliodonium hexafluorophosphate (DPI-HFP). When exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, this compound releases fluoride ions, breaking down the silicone's structure and causing the robot to disintegrate into a harmless oily residue within two hours.
Such technology is particularly useful for sensitive operations, like surveillance or data collection in hazardous environments, where retrieving the robot isn't feasible. By self-destructing, these robots ensure that no sensitive information falls into the wrong hands and reduce environmental impact by leaving minimal waste.
