Ferrofluids are fascinating liquids that exhibit magnetic properties. When exposed to a magnetic field, the fluid becomes strongly magnetized and forms distinct spikes and peaks. Ferrofluids are used in applications like hard drive cooling, magnetic sealing, and even magnetic sculptures and art.
Image from Gyroscope.com
Recently, ferrofluids have become popular for DIY projects and science experiments. With some simple ingredients and materials, you can easily make your own ferrofluid at home. Here's how:
Category: MAKER/SCIENCE
Age: 5+
Time: 40mins
Materials:
• Carrier fluid: 100 ml light mineral or silicone oil. Acts as the base liquid.
• Surfactant: 5 drops oleic acid. Helps disperse the magnetic nanoparticles.
• Magnetic nanoparticles: 1-2 grams fine iron filings. Provides the magnetic responsiveness.
• Strong magnet: Rare earth magnet to test the ferrofluid. Grade N52 or higher is best.
• Containers, beakers, spoon, stirrer: For mixing the ferrofluid.
• (Optional) Coffee filter: For filtering the mixture.
Instructions:
Add the surfactant to the carrier fluid. Place 100 ml of mineral oil in a beaker and stir in 5 drops of oleic acid. Mix well until dispersed.
Slowly add the iron filings while stirring vigorously. Use an electric stirrer if possible. Add the filings 1/2 spoonful at a time, stirring for at least 30 seconds between additions.
Continue adding the iron filings until the fluid becomes a dark, metallic black color. For 100 ml of oil, this is usually around 3 to 5 heaping spoonfuls of filings. The mixture should flow thinly and be smooth.
Allow to sit for 24 hours so the nanoparticles can fully disperse in the fluid. Then test with your magnet!
Hold the magnet close to the side of the container. The fluid should spike up towards the magnet. Move the magnet around to see the spikes follow. Remove the magnet to see the spikes fall back into a liquid.
(Optional) Filter the ferrofluid through a coffee filter to remove any particle clumps. This will make the spikes even more dramatic.
Seal the ferrofluid in an airtight glass container and enjoy! With the proper ratio of materials, your homemade ferrofluid can last for several months.
Your ferrofluid is ready to play and experiment with. Create interesting patterns and shapes by manipulating the magnet. Share your coolest creations with others. Most of all, unleash your inner scientist or artist with this fun DIY project!
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