Magnetomechanical Coupling of Single Domain Particles in Viscoelastic Matrices for Actuation and as Probes for Nanorheology

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Shape-changing materials and other stimuli-sensitive materials open new perspective and a broad range of prospective applications - from novel actuators for robotics via biomedical devices that unfold in the body to clothing that adapts to its environment. The overall goal of the project is the development, realization and investigation of a lego system of functional, e. g. polymer or liquid-crystalline matrices of varying architecture and a nanoparticulate, magnetic probe- and actuator component, allowing the construction of magnetoactive hybrid materials with novel, field-controlled properties.In the first funding period, method development and the investigation of ferrohydrogels was in the focus of the project, while iin the second, our lego system was succesfully expanded to liquid-crystalline systems. For the final funding period, we strive to the realization of magnetoactive ternary hybrid materials, containing magnetic nanoparticles, polymers, and low molecular mesogens, and aiming at a interactive coupling between the magnetic, nematic and elastomeric component.Based on the yet developed and investigated hybrid architectures we will employ liquid crystalline component for the enhancement of the coupling between the magnetic component and elastic matrix in the different architectures and geometric configurations.Using different modes and degrees of coupling between the magnetic, the nematic and the elastomeric director, a spectrum pf magnetomechanical and magnetooptic effects are expected. Ferronematic polymers and elastomers posses potential for the application in magnetooptical storage devices and displays, and as magnetoactive actuators and sensors.