Magneto-elastic properties of isotropic MR elastomers with a tri-modal particle size distribution

Magnetorheological (MR) elastomers, which undergo a change in their shape, physical and mechanical properties as a response to external magnetic fields, belongs to the family of filled elastomer. In order to determine whether different particle size combinations might influence the composite's behavior, a series of complicated multiphase materials that have stable performance are successfully prepared in the present study. The related magneto-mechanical coupling behavior of the MR elastomers is evaluated experimentally and theoretically. The results demonstrate that the particle size distribution had an important influence on the mechanical properties of the hybrid MR elastomers. In addition, there was an optimal mixture ratio for the large, medium, and small particles. By applying a modified constitutive relationship of hyperelasticity, the cycle deformation behaviors of the MR elastomers under a magnetic field environment are subsequently explained. Many of the qualitative theoretical results were in good agreement with experimental observations. This study provides a convenient approach for the investigation of the mechanical properties and behavior of such soft magnetic composites for use in engineering applications.