Preparation and rheological characterization of PDMS-based magnetoelastomers

Description

Magnetoelastomers are hybrid materials based on elastomers and magnetic particles. Due to their magnetic features, their mechanical properties and shape can be controlled by external magnetic fields. This effect occurs through magnetic particles, either in an isotropic or anisotropic arrangement, which have been dispersed in the matrix. Concerning these externally induced changes, magnetoelastomers belong to the group of smart materials. Different applications are possible, such as vibration reduction and change in the haptic properties, more demandingly as mechanical actuators or as mechanical dampers. Additional applications might be conceivable, since their viscoelastic properties can be modified very fast by changing the external forces, and also due to the variety of elastomeric matrices and filler particles. Depending on the particle material and size, as well as their distribution and arrangement inside the cured elastomeric matrix, the obtained mechanical properties can be varied. Ultimately the movement of the particles is heavily dependent on the viscosity of the whole composite. Rheological measurements can provide such information, and additionally some information concerning the curing process. Depending on the different fillers used, different properties could be obtained, which again could be observed in the progress of curing. During this work, the preparation of the magnetoelastomeric material and corresponding rheological characterisation were carried out. The isotropic materials consisted of a crosslinkable commercial polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) matrix filled with different carbonyl-iron particles. These particles have different shape and functionalities, which provide an insight into matrix-particle interactions and their impact on the final properties. The aim is to study the crosslinking behaviour and its dependence on the particle characteristics by means of time resolved rheological measurements.

Period	03 Apr 2013
Event title	Annual European Rheology Conference
Event type	Conference
Location	BelgiumShow on map