Our recent publication on macroscopic ferromagnetic swimmers

Check out our recent publication by our PhD student Joshua Hamilton on the macroscopic ferromagnetic swimmers – Magnetically controlled ferromagnetic swimmers

In this publication we explore the the experimental verification of a new class of autonomous ferromagnetic swimming devices, actuated and controlled solely by an oscillating magnetic field. The devices are comprised of a pair of interacting ferromagnetic particles (one NdFeB and one Fe) coupled together by an silicone rubber link.

We investigate the dynamic performance of a prototype (3.6 mm) of the ferromagnetic swimmer in fluids of different viscosity as a function of the external field parameters (frequency and amplitude) and demonstrate stable propulsion over a wide range of Reynolds numbers. We show a robust control over the speed and direction of propulsion by manipulating the frequency and amplitude of the external magnetic field.

If you want to find out more, follow the link at the top of the post.

Joshua started his PhD in September 2015 after receiving a First Class in MPhys (Hons) Physics with Astrophysics in July 2015. His masters project involved simulating how young massive stars interact with their surrounding medium using three-dimensional Hydrodynamics. He now works on fabricating macro and microscaled ferromagnetic swimmers and investigating their applications. You can also learn more about what Joshua has been working on by clicking here.