What is it about?
The electrically switchable magnetic elastomer is a composite of two different magnetic particles - magnetically strong and semi-strong. Using external magnetic field we can change the magnetization of the weaker particles which closes the magnetic flux inside the material. From the outside, it appears as if the magnetic field has been turned off. This allows us to control the composite with only short pulses of an external magnetic field leaving us with a strong and switchable alternative to the permanent magnets.
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Why is it important?
Permanent magnets are a great source of magnetic field. Unlike simple coils, they do not need an external power supply, making them more energy-efficient. This is why they are used in many everyday devices like motors, speakers, actuators and so on. However, the downside is that they cannot be easily turned off, which means they can’t perform tasks repeatedly. This is where the electrically switchable permanent magnet comes in, offering a solution.
Perspectives
The electrically switchable magnetic elastomer is a proof-of-concept research leading us towards a new smart material. Its high energy density and strong magnetic field combined with control and miniaturization possibilities make it an interesting alternative to conventional electromagnetic field sources for example in minirobotics and medical applications.
Ondřej Sodomka
University of West Bohemia in Pilsen
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Electrically switchable magnetic elastomer, AIP Advances, March 2025, American Institute of Physics,
DOI: 10.1063/9.0000896.
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