Dynamics in a one-dimensional ferrogel model: relaxation, pairing, shock-wave propagation. Issue 22 (23rd May 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Goh, Segun; Menzel, Andreas M.; Löwen, Hartmut
• Is Part Of: Physical chemistry chemical physics. Volume 20:Issue 22(2018)
• Page Start: 15037
• Page End: 15051
• Publication Date: 2018-05-23
• Subjects: Chemistry, Physical and theoretical -- Periodicals; 541.3
• DOI: 10.1039/c8cp01395k
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1463-9076

Abstract

Abstract : Based on theory and simulations, we elucidate the relaxation dynamics of a one-dimensional ferrogel model and provide classification scenarios. Abstract : Ferrogels are smart soft materials, consisting of a polymeric network and embedded magnetic particles. Novel phenomena, such as the variation of the overall mechanical properties by external magnetic fields, emerge consequently. However, the dynamic behavior of ferrogels remains largely unveiled. In this paper, we consider a one-dimensional chain consisting of magnetic dipoles and elastic springs between them as a simple model for ferrogels. The model is evaluated by corresponding simulations. To probe the dynamics theoretically, we investigate a continuum limit of the energy governing the system and the corresponding equation of motion. We provide general classification scenarios for the dynamics, elucidating the touching/detachment dynamics of the magnetic particles along the chain. In particular, it is verified in certain cases that the long-time relaxation corresponds to solutions of shock-wave propagation, while formations of particle pairs underlie the initial stage of the dynamics. We expect that these results will provide insight into the understanding of the dynamics of more realistic models with randomness in parameters and time-dependent magnetic fields.