abstract |
A magnetorheological (MR) fluid is described herein. The MR fluid includes a plurality of magnetizable particles having a particle density. The fluid also includes a carrier fluid having a fluid density, and the plurality of magnetizable particles is dispersed within the carrier fluid. A portion of the plurality of magnetizable particles has a particle density that is substantially the same as the fluid density. The MR fluid may include a plurality of magnetizable particles having an outer shell of a magnetizable material and a hollow core. The MR fluid may also include a plurality of magnetizable particles having an outer shell of a magnetizable material and a solid core. The MR fluid may include a plurality of magnetizable particles having a matrix and a plurality of sub-particles embedded therein. The core or matrix of these particles may include a ceramic, glass or polymer, or a combination thereof. The magnetizable material may include magnetizable metals, metal alloys and various ferrites, such as those comprising Co, Fe, Mg, Mn, Ni, or Zn, or a combination thereof. |