Self-propelled micromachines for analytical sensing: a critical review

Self-propelled micromotors are micro- and nanoscale devices that move autonomously in solution by converting a specific stimulus into mechanical work. The broad scope of operations and applications along with the ultra-small dimensions have opened new possibilities to solve complex analytical challenges. Herein we give a critical overview of early developments and future prospects of such tiny moving objects for different analytical sensing and biosensing strategies. From early electrophoretic propelled nanomotors, which were limited to low viscous media, to bubble-propelled micromotors, the field has evolved into sophisticated all-in-one analytical systems with built-in sensing capabilities. Current progress for in vivo biosensing and integration into analytical instrumentation towards fully functional devices will be also covered. We hope that this review provides the reader with some general knowledge and future prospects of self-propelled micromachines as a new paradigm in analytical chemistry.