Scientists develop a moving, shape-shifting magnetic slime – video

Scientists have created a magnetic slime that is capable of squeezing through narrow spaces, encircling smaller objects and healing itself. The slime can be controlled by magnets and can act as both a solid and a liquid.

The dark blob has been compared on social media to Flubber, the eponymous substance in the 1997 sci-fi film, and described as a 'magnetic turd' and 'amazing and a tiny bit terrifying'. The scientists envisage the slime could potentially be useful in the digestive system, for example in reducing the harm from a small swallowed battery.

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• Magnetic turd': scientists invent moving slime that could be used in human digestive systems