Electro-rheology

Abstract

Electro-rheology is the phenomenon in which the rheology of fluids is modified by the imposition of electric fields. In this Review the nature of the fluids active in this role are presented and the influence of important variables such as shear rate, field strength, field frequency, temperature and fluid composition are described. Also discussed are the dielectric behaviour of dispersions in flow since this is of direct bearing on the phenomenon of electro-rheology. Various models for electro-rheology are presented and assessed. The authors also describe how recent developments in new classes of electro-rheological fluids have resulted from a clearer understanding of the probable electrodynamic origins of the effect. The Review concludes with an overview of the practical applications that electro-rheology has and may have in the future.