A review on magneto-mechanical characterizations of magnetorheological elastomers

Magnetorheological elastomers (MREs) are a class of recently emerged smart materials whose moduli are largely influenced when exposed to an external magnetic field . The MREs are particulate composites , where micro-sized magnetic particles are dispersed inside a non-magnetic polymeric matrix . These elastomers are known for changing their mechanical and rheological properties in the presence of a magnetic field . This change in properties is widely known as the magnetorheological (MR) effect. The MR effect depends on a number of factors such as type of matrix materials , type, concentration and distribution of magnetic particles, use of additives, working modes, and magnetic field strength . The investigation of MREs’ mechanical properties in both off-field and on-field (i.e. absence and presence of a magnetic field) is crucial to deploy them in real engineering applications . The common magneto-mechanical characterization experiments of MREs include static and dynamic compression, tensile, and shear tests in both off-field and on-field. This review article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the magneto-mechanical characterizations of MREs along with brief coverage of the MRE materials and their fabrication methods .