Ferrofluids

Claimed by Brandon Chen

Ferrofluids (the combination of ferromagnetic and fluid) are defined as liquid which, when placed within a magnetic field, experience strong magnetizations which can result in incredibly versatile shapes and forms. This phenomenon stems from the dispersal of ferrimagnetic particles which help create the composition of the fluid. Typically, these particles are suspended water or another organic solvent.

Significance

Applications

Non-Newtonian fluids have a variety of real-world applications. It has been found that they provide an excellent remedy to potholes, since the stress provided by fast-moving cars would drastically increase the viscosity of the dried fluid, providing a stable driving surface. These fluids also have a place in body armor, specifically bullet-proof vests. In industry, non-Newtonian fluids are often used in hydraulic systems because of they become thicker when a larger force is applied. Recent uses for these fluids have included installment into sneakers. When the user is standing still, the liquid flows to the shape of the foot, but when the user is running, the fluid would become more solid, protecting the foot from injury.

A Mathematical Model

The basic behavior of a non-Newtonian fluid can be described with the following equation:

History

Non-Newtonian, as well as Newtonian, fluids were first described by scientist Isaac Newton during the 1600s. The idea came when Newton wanted to know how much force had to be applied to a liquid for the liquid to reach a desired flow. Upon working with many different types of fluids, Newton came to the conclusion that some liquids behaved in a very similar manner(Newtonian fluids), while others behaved in a very extraordinary and different manner(non-Newtonian fluids) which differed from his prediction that all liquids behaved homogeneously.

Examples of Non-Newtonian Fluids

• Ketchup
• Toothpaste
• Starch mixed with water
• Shampoo
• Blood
• Custard
• Paint

See also

• Mass
• Melting Point
• Inertia

Further reading

1. Tropea, Cameron; Yarin, Alexander L.; Foss, John F. (2007). Springer handbook of experimental fluid mechanics.
2. Chhabra, R.P. (2006). Bubbles, Drops, and Particles In Non-Newtonian Fluids. (2nd ed.). Hoboken: Taylor & Francis Ltd.
3. Fridtjov Irgens(2014). Rheology and Non-Newtonian Fluids.

External links

[1] [2] [3] [4]

References

• Tropea, Cameron; Yarin, Alexander L.; Foss, John F. (2007). Springer handbook of experimental fluid mechanics.
• Chhabra, R.P. (2006). Bubbles, Drops, and Particles In Non-Newtonian Fluids. (2nd ed.). Hoboken: Taylor & Francis Ltd.
• Fridtjov Irgens(2014). Rheology and Non-Newtonian Fluids.
• "What Is a Non-Newtonian Fluid?" General Chemistry Online: FAQ: Liquids:. N.p., n.d. Web. 03 Dec. 2015.
• Io9. "Non-Newtonian Fluids: For When You Want a Liquid That's Also a Solid." Io9.com. N.p., 20 Dec. 2010. Web.