Ministers invest millions in swarm of tiny 1cm micro-robots that can fix leaks in underground pipes

Mini-robots that can fix pipe leaks and work in dangerous environments could soon make road-works a thing of the past. The government is investing a total of £26.6 million to help fund a variety of projects, including the 1cm-long machines. The cash is being split among four UK universities - Leeds, Sheffield, Birmingham and Bristol - to create the innovative pipe-bots which will work in underground pipes and dangerous sites like nuclear decommissioning facilities. It is hoped they will spell the end for many disruptive and expensive roadworks, as robots carry out repairs without the need to dig up the roads. Mini-robots that can fix pipe leaks and work in dangerous environments could soon make road-works a thing of the past.