Researchers have discovered a way to outfit robobugs with electronic sensors which can give these cyborg insects a reliable power source.

The use of robobugs have proven invaluable in applications ranging from search-and-rescue to espionage, but the problem of a reliable power source for these insect-machine mash-ups have stymied the development of this project.

DARPA has looked into remotely controlling other animals, notably sharks, but insects are thought to be particularly versatile for their small size, simple biology and ability to fly.

As early as 2008, the British defense and aerospace company has been reported to have created small electronic insects, spiders and snakes that have the ability to enter places before combat soldiers and electronically report back their findings.

Some of the insect-like robots were equipped with small cameras, while others have sensors that are able to detect chemical, biological or radioactive weapons, reports said.

The new study by researchers at Case Western Reserve University has found that researchers are about to solve the critical problem that has slowed down the development of the remote-control insect systems which is finding a reliable power source for the bug-borne sensors.

Researchers are finding ways to be able to generate energy from the bugs themselves since batteries installed on insects's backs cannot give enough power to support planned reconnaissance and first-response missions. At the University of Michigan, researchers are developing techniquest to harness the movement and body heat of cockroaches, while the Case Western study is focused on getting additional power from the insect's body chemistry.

This technique, according to researchers, works by introducing a series of enzymes to break down complex molecules that the cockroach produces when it eats, and oxidizing the resulting sugars to release electrons; these are then run through a fuel cell to create electricity. Power can thus be produced without the insect needing to be in motion, researchers said.

"It's possible the system could be used intermittently. An insect equipped with a sensor could measure the amount of noxious gas in a room, broadcast the finding, shut down and recharge for an hour, then take a new measurement and broadcast again," said Daniel Scherson, chemistry professor at Case Western Reserve and senior author of the paper.