Magnetorheological Elastomer‐Based Materials and Devices: State of the Art and Future Perspectives

Abstract

Magnetorheological elastomers based on the combination of a polymeric matrix with magnetic fillers allow the possibility of controlling their mechanical properties when an external magnetic field is applied. This so‐called magnetorheological effect can be exploited for a variety of applications. Herein, a comprehensive outlook at the state of the art is provided, in terms of the materials, effects, and applications. The physical effects that result in the magnetorheological effect are described, both from a micro and phenomenological points of view. Then, the possible combinations of different polymeric matrices and magnetic fillers, along with other additives, are presented, allowing to tune the mechanical properties, mainly dependent on the polymer matrix, and the magnetic field response, which is related to the magnetic filler. Finally, representative applications of magnetorheological elastomers are presented. This review represents an up‐to‐date state‐of‐the‐art in the field of magnetorheological elastomers as a ground to highlight the main achievements and point the specific needs to improve their response and applicability by further tuning materials and configurations.

Magnetorheological elastomer‐based 4D printed electroactive composite actuators

“…The magnetic resonance (MR) effect is a change in the mechanical properties of a composite caused by the magnetic interaction between particles within the surrounding matrix, which results in the creation of chain-like structures oriented roughly parallel to the magnetic field. Micron-sized particles in the size range of 3-5 µm with magnetic properties that are integrated into a nonmagnetic medium make up the majority of MRE materials [37].…”

Effect of Carbonyl Iron Particle Types on the Structure and Performance of Magnetorheological Elastomers: A Frequency and Strain Dependent Study

“…For this reason, MREs can be successfully adopted in applications where the controllable and reversible variation of the effective stiffness and damping of a device are desired. Such applications include MREs dynamic vibration absorbers (DVAs) and absorbers [ 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 ], engine mounts [ 7 , 8 ], sound insulation [ 9 ], and smart actuators [ 10 ]. The magneto-mechanical characteristics of MREs in the absence and presence of magnetic fields have been explored in literature [ 11 , 12 ].…”

AC magnetorheology of polymer magnetic composites

“…14,15 Rheological studies can be conducted by dynamic mechanical analysis methods under static magnetic fields using commercial instruments, but these accessories do not allow the AMF. 16–21 In the case of commercial rheometers, a static magnetic field is generated by an electro-magnetic coil located below the sample, which does not induce induction heating unlike the alternating magnetic field. However, engineering to create a magnetic field that oscillates at 400 000 cycles per second ( e.g .…”