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Studying the field-controlled change of shape and elasticity of magnetic gels using particle-based simulations

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Abstract

Ferrogels are soft elastic materials into which magnetic particles are embedded. The resulting interplay between elastic and magnetic interactions and the materials’ response to external fields makes them promising candidates for applications such as actuation and drug delivery. In this article, after providing a very brief introduction to particle-based simulation methods, we give an overview on how they can be applied to magnetic gels. We focus on the different mechanisms by which ferrogels can deform in an external magnetic field. Based on examples from our previous work, we show how these mechanisms can be captured by particle-based simulations. Lastly, we provide some links to simulation techniques on larger length scales.

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Fig. 1

Reprinted from Ref. [43] with permission from Elsevier. (Color figure online)

Fig. 2

Reprinted from Ref. [43] with permission from Elsevier

Fig. 3

(Based on data from Ref. [45])

Fig. 4

This figure is based on data from Ref. [44]. (Color figure online)

Fig. 5

(Figure adapted from Ref. [51])

Fig. 6

(Reproduced from Ref. [51])

Fig. 7
Fig. 8

(Figure adapted from Ref. [57]—published by the Royal Society of Chemistry)

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Acknowledgements

The authors are grateful for financial support from the German Science Foundation (DFG) through the priority program SPP 1681 through the Grant HO 1108/23-2. Additionally, R. W. and C. H. acknowledge funding through the cluster of excellence EXC 310, SimTech, and access to the computer facilities of the HLRS and BW-Unicluster.

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  1. Institut für Computerphysik, Universität Stuttgart, Allmandring 3, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany

    Rudolf Weeber, Patrick Kreissl & Christian Holm

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  1. Rudolf Weeber
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Weeber, R., Kreissl, P. & Holm, C. Studying the field-controlled change of shape and elasticity of magnetic gels using particle-based simulations. Arch Appl Mech 89, 3–16 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00419-018-1396-4

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