Scientists have developed self-propelling nanoballs made of polystyrene and coated in platinum.

Science Daily reports that a collaboration of British and Iranian experts has produced the breakthrough, which experts believe could eventually drive the development of self-propelled 'nanoswimmers' that might be able to navigate narrow channels, such as in the human body.

The scientists took the tiny polystyrene balls and coated one side of each in platinum. The nanoballs were then placed in a solution of hydrogen peroxide and water, whereby the platinum acted as a catalyst and reacted with the solution to push the balls forward.

If the technique can be refined, it may be possible to use nanoballs such as these to deliver treatments direct to the source of a problem within the human body.

The next stage for the researchers will be to try to exert more control over the direction in which the nanoballs travel.

Source:

Microscopic Polystyrene Balls -- Now Jet-propelled, 16/07/07
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/07/070716133456.htm

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