Wetting of ferrofluids: Phenomena and control. (July 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Latikka, Mika; Backholm, Matilda; Timonen, Jaakko V.I.; Ras, Robin H.A.
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in colloid & interface science. Volume 36(2018)
• Page Start: 118
• Page End: 129
• Publication Date: 2018-07
• Subjects: Ferrofluid -- Wetting -- Magnetic field -- Contact angle -- Magnetic nanoparticles; Surface chemistry -- Periodicals; Colloids -- Periodicals; 541.33
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cocis.2018.04.003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1359-0294

Abstract

Abstract: Ferrofluids are liquids exhibiting remarkably strong response to magnetic fields, which leads to fascinating properties useful in various applications. Understanding the wetting properties and spreading of ferrofluids is important for their use in microfluidics and magnetic actuation. However, this is challenging as magnetically induced deformation of the ferrofluid surface can affect contact angles, which are commonly used to characterize wetting properties in other systems. In addition, interaction of the magnetic nanoparticles and solid surface at nanoscale can have surprising effects on ferrofluid spreading. In this review we discuss these issues with focus on interpretation of ferrofluid contact angles. We review recent literature examining ferrofluid wetting phenomena and outline novel wetting related ferrofluid applications. To better understand wetting of ferrofluids, more careful experimental work is needed. Graphical abstract: Unlabelled Image Highlights: Understanding ferrofluid wetting properties is essential for many applications. Ferrofluid contact angle measurement under magnetic field is challenging. Interaction between nanoparticles and surface can affect ferrofluid spreading. Further work on advancing and receding ferrofluid contact angles is needed.