The friction and wear properties of four different types of magneto-rheological (MR) elastomer were investigated. The MR elastomers have different matrix materials and structures. Most MR elastomers have a silicone matrix, since it has a more significant MR effect under a magnetic field compared to other materials. The mechanical properties of silicone, however, are poor compared to other materials, so it is difficult to use them in engineering applications. Therefore, a new polyurethane matrix material was used to enhance the friction and wear properties of MR elastomer. Additionally, two different matrix materials (silicone and polyurethane) were synthesized, and MR elastomers were structurally combined to improve the friction and wear performance. The friction characteristics of each MR elastomer were evaluated under reciprocating operating conditions. Wear depth was also measured to estimate the wear resistance. The test results show that the friction and wear performance of the modified MR elastomers are enhanced compared with the silicone-based MR elastomer.
In this study, the magnetic fatigue properties of a magnetorheological elastomer were evaluated with and without a magnetic field. To accomplish the process, a magnetic fatigue tester and magnetorheological elastomer samples were designed and fabricated. The mechanical properties of the magnetorheological elastomer were determined under various fatigue cycle numbers and fatigue frequencies with and without a magnetic field. The shear modulus of the magnetorheological elastomer was also measured before and after the test to evaluate its mechanical properties. The results show that the shear modulus of the magnetorheological elastomer was larger in the presence of a magnetic field and decreased as the number of fatigue cycles increased because the internal structure became loose. Scanning electron microscopy images showed that the internal structure of the magnetorheological elastomer was loose under repeated application of magnetic fields.
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