Yield Hardening of Electrorheological Fluids in Channel Flow

Abstract

Understanding the physics behind electric-field-responsive fluids would open the way for advanced hydraulic components like valves, dampers, and clutches, but existing theories do not explain some observations. The authors study the increase in field-dependent yield stress of electrorheological fluids in pressure-driven flow. This increase is tied to the increase in local particle volume fraction, which is dynamically set by the balance of electrostatic forces and shear stresses. The authors' model allows quantitative design and optimization of valve parameters for robotic systems.