Physical, magnetic, morphological, and optical properties of isotropic magnetorheological elastomers with cobalt as fillers for assistive sensor devices applications

• Main Authors: Nasruldin, Akmal Arif, Shabdin, Muhammad Kashfi, Awang Kechik, Mohd. Mustafa, Chen, Soo Kien, Lim, Kean Pah, Shaari, Abdul Halim, Abdul Karim, Muhammad Khalis, Nazmi, Nurhazimah, Miryala, Muralidhar
• Format: Article
• Published: Springer Nature 2024
• Subjects: Q Science (General)
• Online Access: http://eprints.utm.my/108881/; http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10854-024-12698-y

Cobalt particles are often used as fillers in magnetorheological elastomer (MRE) due to their potential advantages. This study aimed to assess the physical, morphological, magnetic, and optical properties of cobalt-based MRE (Co-MRE). To achieve this, several isotropic samples with different concentrations of cobalt and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) were created. Finite Element Method Magnetics (FEMM) 2D simulation software and a Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM) were used to assess the magnetic properties. Morphological properties were observed with a Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) and physical properties were examined using X-Ray Diffraction (XRD). Ultraviolet–Visible (UV–Vis) and Photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy were used to study the optical properties. FEMM 2D showed that 7 wt% of Co-MRE had the highest magnetic flux density. VSM indicated that 7 wt% of Co-MRE had the strongest magnetic saturation. Morphological properties revealed that 7 wt% of Co-MRE had a rougher surface than 0–5 wt%. XRD showed that 7 wt% of Co-MRE had more cobalt elements. UV–Vis indicated that 5 wt% of Co-MRE had a precise result with some noise. PL spectroscopy showed that 7 wt% of Co-MRE had a higher emission peak and a broader shape at 475–525 nm excitation wavelength, while 0 wt% had a broader shape graph at 550–600 nm. While these properties are beneficial, it is important to balance the sensitivity and elasticity of MRE for stable applications in assistive sensor devices.