Rheological characteristics of an iron particle-based magnetorheological fluid under weak magnetic field strength

The flow behavior of a magnetic particle suspension was investigated in a steady shear mode, and the internal structure formation as a function of external magnetic field strength was analyzed. Contrary to the general trend of an increase in flow properties with magnetic field strength, distinct transition regions in which the viscosities and stresses temporarily decrease were observed. This depletion zone was explained by a change in the structural fori-nation of the magnetic particles in the continuous medium by the competing processes of chain formation and rupture with an increase in magnetic field strength.