Depolymerization-Powered Autonomous Motors Using Biocompatible Fuel

We report the design of autonomous motors powered by the rapid depolymerization reaction of poly(2-ethyl cyanoacrylate) (PECA), an FDA-approved polymer. Motors were fabricated in two different length scales, 3 cm and 300 mu m. The motion of the motors is induced by self-generated surface tension gradients along their bodies. The motors are capable of moving in various media, including salt solutions and artificial serum.