Dynamics of magnetophoresis in dilute magnetic fluids

Experimental and theoretical studies were carried out to investigate the spatial distribution of colloidal particles in magnetic fluids formed under the influence of magnetophoresis and gradient diffusion in strong magnetic fields. The analysis of experimental data shows that aggregates essentially change the concentration profile, making it nonlinear even in small (2 mm) magnetic fluid samples. Theoretical models, describing concentration profiles, are discussed. Good agreement between experimental and theoretical curves is observed in the case when aggregates contain on average 40–50 particles.