As CO 2 accumulates in crewed spacecraft, submarines and disaster shelters, life-support systems demand sorbents that combine high capacity, ultralow regeneration energy and compact form factors. Now, researchers from Guangxi University, led by Prof. Hui He, unveil micro/nano-reconfigurable robots (MNRM) that harvest sunlight to capture 6.19 mmol g -1 CO 2 and release it at only 55 °C—while actively swimming to prevent overheating. In a sealed-mouse model the robots prolonged survival by 54.61 %, offering a self-powered route to carbon-metabolism control in extreme environments.
Why MNRM Matters
Innovative Design & Features
Applications & Outlook
This work translates nano-reconfiguration into a ready-to-deploy robotic carbon metabolism, promising energy-frugal CO 2 control for both space exploration and terrestrial emergency shelters. Stay tuned for more advances from Prof. Hui He’s group!
Nano-Micro Letters
Micro/Nano‑Reconfigurable Robots for Intelligent Carbon Management in Confined‑Space Life‑Support Systems
4-Nov-2025