Dynamics of Ferromagnetic Colloids at Liquid Interfaces Under Unsteady Magnetic Fields in 2D

Abstract

This chapter focuses on nontrivial collective dynamics and self-organization in 2D ferromagnetic colloidal dispersions energized by time-dependent magnetic fields. The complexity of magnetic and hydrodynamic interactions between ferromagnetic particles in such colloids result in a plethora of remarkable phenomena ranging from unconventionally ordered dynamic architectures, spontaneous symmetry breaking, self-propulsion, active turbulence and collective transport. Some of the features of the complex self-organization and collective dynamics in those out-of-equilibrium systems have been successfully captured in theoretical models and simulations. From a technological viewpoint, active magnetic colloids provide access to new self-assembled structures and functionalities which are generally not accessible through conventional equilibrium techniques.