LAUSR

Self-propelled microrobots have been attracting much attention. In this study, we report that a light-driven boat using asymmetrical convection flow moves toward the colder end. Specifically, we demonstrated that a floating circular structure consisting of a light-reflecting semi-circular part and a light-absorbing semi-circular part moves toward the end of the light-reflecting part under light irradiation. In addition, by visualizing the flow field under the boat, we confirmed that the boat generated a convection flow toward the cold side and was moving to ride on the flow. Our device is useful for biomedical applications and water remediation.