Ferrofluid is a kind of liquid which is made up of very small magnetic particles. This particular fluid has magnetic properties like a solid magnet and is basically a mixture of magnetic solids, carrier fluid and a surfactant. The fluid is commonly used in art displays, commercial industries, medicine and education. By altering the level of viscosity and magnetization, the fluid can be customized for certain specific applications.
Scientists at NASA were searching for a way to move liquid fuel in the 1960s; so they created a magnetic fluid which can be controlled with the application of magnetic field. Due to this discovery, several years later, a company was founded for producing ferrofluid for commercial purpose.
Various kinds of ferrofluids with different formulas are available but magnetite, a kind of iron oxide is commonly used in making this substance. A surfactant, like oleic acid, is used for coating tiny magnetite particles to prevent them from gathering in to mass. The surfactant which is a dispersing agent creates electrostatic repulsion between the particles and keeps them separated. This implies that the particles have a positive charge around them which prevents them from contacting each other. To form the final solution, the surfactant and magnetite are suspended in some kind of carrier fluid like oil or water.
Due to its unique magnetic features, the fluid is used in classrooms and labs as a teaching instrument. It is quite easy to demonstrate the effect of magnetism by using this substance. The fluid is also used for creating a kind of liquid seal, or O-ring, to rotate drive shafts on semiconductors. The fluid is held by the magnets for creating a strong barrier which reduces friction.
Ferrofluid is widely used in manufacturing audio speakers. For more than three decades, it is used in speakers to increase the performance of the speakers. By applying force which centers the voice coil, the fluid helps in reducing distortion. Its unusual and unique properties are very useful to lubricate the device, increase resistance of heat, improve damping and enhance the overall sound quality.
This fluid has turn to be a popular way for creating awesome display of art. When the solution is placed near the magnet, interesting magnetic patterns are produced by the movement and alignment of magnetic particles. The result is a three-dimensional, spiked figure which can be used as a conversation piece.
Ferrofluid has wide applications in many areas from teaching labs to industries. The applications and uses of the fluid are increasing due to its magnetic properties and chemical composition. In the field of biotechnology and medicine, research is going on to find ways to use the fluid to help the detection of cancer and diagnose Alzheimer’s disease.
