Magnetic silicone rubber: Fabrication and analysis with applications

Abstract

In this research, we fabricated magnetic silicone rubbers (MSR) by using magnetic powders of Fe or Sr ferrite (ϕ 3–5 um) and investigated the physical properties of the MSR, such as the elastic and the magnetic characteristics. MSR is a new approach to flexible magnetic actuators. If the MSR is to be solidified, the mixing ratio between a silicone elastomer and the magnetic powders is important. In addition, the ratio determines the magnetic properties in a magnetic field. If soft magnetic powders are used in the MSR, magnetic force control is possible. We applied MSR to an electromagnetic linear actuator to verify the capability of MSR based on Fe or Sr ferrite materials. In the linear actuator for inchworm motion, MSR improved the magnetic force and the velocity. MSR can provide a simple mechanism for robotic applications and magnetic artificial muscles.