Macroscopic aspects of field-controlled particle-matrix interactions in magnetorheological elastomers and in liquid crystalline magnetic gels

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Helmut R. Brand
• Subject Area: Theoretical Condensed Matter Physics ; Fluid Mechanics
• Term: from 2013 to 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 238057284

The aim of this research proposal is to analyze the macroscopic and rheological properties of two classes of magnetic systems for which particle matrix interactions play an important role. The results are then applied to concrete problems. On the one hand we will study the phase transitions and the hydrodynamic properties of a liquid crystalline magnetic gel. On the other hand we will investigate the transition magnetorheological fluids to magnetorheological gels in external fields. In all systems chosen for analysis both, the properties of a permanent network as well as the formation of a transient network, play an important role. The formation of a transient network can be influenced and controlled by using magnetic fields. Macroscopically nonconserved strain fields and relative rotations between the different subsystems will come into play, in addition to the macroscopic variables, which are characteristic for magnetic and orientational degrees of freedom.

• DFG Programme: Priority Programmes
• Subproject of: SPP 1681: Field Controlled Particle Matrix Interaction: Synthesis, Multi-Scale Modelling and Application of Magnetic Hybrid-Materials
• International Connection: Slovenia
• Cooperation Partners: Professor Dr. Harald Pleiner; Privatdozent Dr. Daniel Svensek