Distribution of micrometer-size particles in magnetic fluids in the presence of steady uniform magnetic field

In this paper, distribution of suspended micrometer-size particles in magnetic fluids is investigated. Microstructure formation of particles in magnetic fluids is simulated by using the discrete particle method based on the simplified Stokes dynamics. Not only magnetic particles but also nonmagnetic particles are rearranged in the field direction and form chain-like clusters due to the apparent magnetization in magnetic fluids in the presence of magnetic field. When the diameter of nonmagnetic particles is smaller than that of magnetic particles, nonmagnetic particles move into the empty space of microstructure of magnetic particles, and they are rearranged in the field direction. Uniformity of distribution of particles on the plane perpendicular to the field direction is maintained even after microstructure formation.

Research Highlights
► Behavior of micrometer-size particles in magnetic fluids is simulated by using the simplified Stokes dynamics.
► Both magnetic particles and nonmagnetic particles form chain-like clusters under magnetic field.
► Distribution of particles depends on the size and volume fraction of particles.