Three-dimensional microstructural investigation of high magnetization nano–micro composite fluids using x-ray microcomputed tomography

X-ray microcomputed tomography was used in a three-dimensional investigation of the microstructure of suspensions of multi-domain soft iron particles in magnetic nanofluids. The measurements were performed using two different approaches: with the sample kept frozen, and with the sample under the effect of an external magnetic field. Results show that even a relatively low magnetic field gradient drives the micron-sized iron particles towards the stronger field and thus leads to a redistribution of the ferromagnetic particles in the magnetic nanofluid. Three-dimensional images of the internal microstructure of the composite magnetizable fluid (CMF) were obtained not only for the nano–micro composite system placed in a closed sample holder, but also for the spikes formed at the CMF free surface. It was demonstrated that x-ray microcomputed tomography is an efficient way to investigate the distribution and chain formation of ferromagnetic microparticles in a magnetic nanofluid carrier allowing an analysis even at a single particle level.