Two-dimensional Monte Carlo simulations of a suspension comprised of magnetic and nonmagnetic particles in gradient magnetic fields

Distributions of particles in a suspension comprised of magnetic particles (MPs) and nonmagnetic particles (NPs) under gradient magnetic fields are vitally important for the preparation of magnetic–nonmagnetic functionally graded materials (FGMs). In the present study, the effects of magnetic field gradient, magnetic interaction between MPs and concentration of NPs on the distributions of particles in the suspension are investigated using a two-dimensional Monte Carlo simulation. The results show that a gradient distribution of MPs is formed under gradient magnetic fields and increases with increasing the field gradient. However, as the interaction between MPs increases, the distribution gradient decreases, accompanied by the formation of chain-like MP clusters. Moreover, NPs are found to hinder the translation of MPs along the field direction. As the NP concentration increases, the translation of MPs becomes difficult.