Dynamic surfaces can be switched by magnetic fields

2018-07-23T08:27:00

Source: Oliver Hoffman / Shutterstock.com

Magnetic fields can alter surface friction and stickiness

Infusing a porous solid with a magnetic liquid – or ferrofluid – produces surfaces whose texture can be altered using a magnetic field, making it easy to vary properties such as friction or stickiness. The new materials could be used for microfluidic devices, fouling-release systems or pharmaceutical applications.

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