Mathematical modeling of magneto-sensitive elastomers

Magneto-sensitive (MS) elastomers are a class of smart materials whose mechanical properties change instantly by the application of a magnetic field. These materials typically consist of micron-sized ferrous particles dispersed in an elastomer. The full system of equations for deformable MS solids in an electro-magnetic field is first considered. Then, the strain-energy functions for isotropic MS elastomers are presented and a simple phenomenological model is suggested. Finally, to illustrate some of the features of the derived model, a MS elastomer confined by parallel top and bottom plates is subjected to shear deformation under the influence of a magnetic field normal to the plates. An acceptable agreement is illustrated between numerical simulation and experimental observation.