Leading experts provide a timely overview of the key developments in the physics, chemistry and uses of magnetorheological fluids.

Magnetically responsive soft matter is a colloidal model system where interparticle interactions can be tuned through external magnetic fields. Covering the most recent literature in the field, with special emphasis on the physical mechanisms behind their rheological behaviour, this book aims to demonstrate the controllability of soft matter through an external (magnetic) stimulus. With chapters written by leading experts, fundamental topics are complemented by cutting edge research, in particular, discussions on advances in sedimentation stability, structural characterization using microCT, surface functionalization, bidisperse composites, self-assembly at interfaces and collective dynamics, friction and shear-thickening, dynamics, self-assembly and rheology under unsteady triaxial magnetic fields, theoretical developments and particle level numerical simulations, including contact forces and biomedical and tissue engineering applications. This complete perspective of the field attempts to bridge the gap between fundamentals and applications and is an excellent addition to any soft matter scientist’s library.

The field of functional materials has grown tremendously over the last 5-10 years, due to its richness in both science and applications. This timely compendium covers the science and applications of functional materials in a comprehensive manner that is suitable for readers that do not have background on the electrical, dielectric, electromagnetic, optical and magnetic properties of materials. Prior knowledge of quantum mechanics or solid state physics is also not required. Only a semester of introductory materials science suffices.This unique reference text is tutorial in style and includes numerous example problems, which are lacking in several competing books in the market.The must-have volume benefits undergraduate and graduate students in materials science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and aerospace engineering.

The rheological properties of magnetorheological (MR) materials, such as their viscosity and dynamic modulus, can be tuned or controlled by changing the intensity of the magnetic field using appropriate control schemes. Thanks to their robustness, performance and smart properties, numerous studies have been undertaken on the development of new MR materials, and microscopic and macroscopic modelling approaches. Novel applications include engine mounts and clutch systems in the automotive industry, shock absorbing safety devices for cockpit seats in aerospace, and shock absorption from movement in semi-active human prosthetic legs.

Magnetic control of the properties and the flow of liquids is a challenging field for basic research and for applications. This book is meant to be both an introduction to, and a state-of-the-art review of, this topic. Written in the form of a set of lectures and tutorial reviews, the book addresses the synthesis and characterization of magnetic fluids, their hydrodynamical description and their rheological properties. The book closes with an account of magnetic drug targeting.

ERMR 2006 included invited speakers, technical presentations, poster presentations, and a student paper competition. At the conference banquet, Dr. David Carlson of Lord Corporation addressed the conference attendees and gave a stirring speech on the history of ER and MR fluids, as well as current and future applications. A unique feature of the ERMR Conferences is that they comprehensively cover issues ranging from physics to chemistry to engineering applications of ER and MR materials held in a general session to enhance the interaction between the scientists and engineers. The sessions in ERMR 2006 were organized based into two Symposia: a) Materials and b) Applications. Topics covered in the Materials Symposium included: mechanisms, preparation, and characterization of ER and MR materials. Topics covered in the Applications Symposium included: ER and MR devices, control systems, system integration, and applications. This structure was implemented in order to enable interaction between attending scientists and engineers in both the Materials Symposium and the Applications Symposium, and to enhance the free flow of ideas, and the potential collaborative research opportunities.