Hematite Cubes

Abstract

AbstractThe methods of synthesis of hematite particles with different shapes are reviewed. Several experimental settings with suspensions of hematite particles are described considering their rolling, spinning in rotating (in vertical or horizontal plane) magnetic field. Gravity plays an important role since the hematite density is larger than the one of the carrier liquid. Equilibrium configurations of hematite cubes under the action of magnetic field and gravity are described. The change of morphology of chains of hematite cubes with increasing applied magnetic field and the formation of kinks are explained. Various regimes of hematite particle chains are observed in a rotating (in horizontal plane) magnetic field, more specifically synchronous with a field rotation, back-and-forth rotation in the plane of the rotating field, out of plane and periodic breaking and reassembly regimes.