A novel chain-cluster model of magnetorheological elastomer for the dynamic mechanical performance research

Abstract

Abstract The existing research on magnetorheological elastomer (MRE) mainly focused on the improvement of MRE formula and structural design of MRE devices. As to the microscopic mechanism, less research has been done. Based on the scanning electron micrograph of MRE, a novel chain-cluster model of MRE was constructed in this study. Particle size and particle distance were introduced simultaneously to the constitutive relation of MRE. The dynamic mechanical properties of MRE are studied theoretically and experimentally. Using the constructed chain-cluster model of MRE, the effect of magnetic field, particle volume fraction and strain on the magnetic-induced modulus of MRE were simulated. Rotating rheometer was adopted to test the magnetic response characteristics of MREs. Simulation and test results showed that the maximum magnetic-induced modulus tested experimentally was in good agreement with that calculated theoretically. Thus, the constructed chain-cluster model of MRE shows an important role in the field of intelligent vibration. It not only makes great sense in the prediction of MRE property but provides guidance on the property improvement of MRE.