What are ferrofluids?
Are ferrofluids safe to handle?
How are ferrofluids made?
Can they made "at home"?
What are the ingredients for ferrofluids?
What are potential uses for ferrofluids?
What is the texture of ferrofluids?
What reacts to ferrofluids?
Ferrofluid is a metallic liquid that becomes magnetized when it is placed in a magnetic field. This creates a very strong bond. The substance is made from clumps of iron nano-particles of metal alloy that are distributed through a fluid such as water or organic solvent. Ferrofluid also has both liquid and solid properties. Ferrofluids contain a magnetic suspension.
ReplyDeleteIt is not wise to touch ferrofluids with bare hands because of the iron in it. It is safe, however, to touch it with gloves on.
There are many different ways to make ferrofluids at home. Some main ingredients in the substance are steel wool, kerosene, ferric chloride, household ammonia, oleic acid and distilled water. To make ferrofluids, beakers and graduated cylinders, glass stir rods, burners and strong magnets are needed.
Ferrofluids have been used for many things including making a barrier around an electronic hard drive to prevent dust particles from entering and damaging the drive. In addition, ferrofluids have been used as a lubricant that causes magnets to glide across surfaces. Ferrofluids can be used in rotating shaft seals as well and in the manufacture of hard disks. Because it is a powerful sealant, it can securely connect the hard disk’s shaft to its magnet. Ferrofluids are also used in improving the performance of loudspeakers. The military also benefits from ferrofluids. They use the substance to make their aircrafts less visible from enemies’ radar systems. In addition, ferrofluids give airplanes a better attitude control system.Ferrofluids can be used as strong sealants and good lubricants for building, specifically in homes. Aside from the uses mentioned above, ferrofluids have biomedical uses. Doctors have also been able to use the substance to help identify cancer. Finally, in engineering, ferrofluids are use to reduce friction between rubbing parts.
The texture of ferrofluids is smooth and shiny.
Ferrofluids react to magnets in various ways.