Seoul National University

History

2025: Development of the world's first liquid robot - it can take any form

In late March 2025, South Korean researchers from Seoul University announced the development of the world's first liquid robot. It can transform freely, split into parts, and reconnect, performing various functions.

Scientists note that biological cells have the ability to deform, divide, connect and capture foreign substances. Various research teams around the world are working to recreate these unique capabilities in artificial systems. However, traditional robots are not able to fully imitate living cells in terms of flexibility and functionality. Seoul University experts have developed a robot that moves and transforms like an "intellectual fluid."

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Фото: eng.snu.ac.kr

The "body" of the new machine consists of water turned into ice, coated with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) - a material known under the brand name Teflon. Such a layer makes the surface hydrophobic and forms a strong shell that remains stable even after the ice melts. The robot is driven by ultrasonic waves. The thrust force generated by these waves, combined with surface friction, provides precise control over the movements of the device. To control the robot, a special mathematical model has been created that predicts the speed and trajectory of movement.

The robot is able to move on hard surfaces and in water, pass through narrow spaces, collect objects and even connect with other liquid robots. It is expected that in the future the proposed technology will find application in various fields, in particular, in medicine for the targeted delivery of drugs, as well as in disaster zones for reconnaissance in hard-to-reach places.^[1]

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