Abstract: The method to quantitatively estimate the distribution homogeneity of magnetic fillers in magnetorheological elastomers (MREs) has not been proposed, and little effective technology has been developed to improve the distribution homogeneity. In this study, zinc dimethacrylate (ZDMA) was used as the dispersant to prepare MREs with carbonyl iron (CI) particles and silicone rubbers, and a quantitative method was proposed to estimate the distribution homogeneity of CI particles in MREs. The results indicated that the distribution homogeneity of the CI particles was improved by adding ZDMA. A mechanism was proposed to explain the results based on the possible polymerization reaction of ZDMA and the interaction with silicone rubber and CI particles. Dynamic viscoelasticity test results indicated the storage modulus and loss modulus of MREs were promoted by adding ZDMA. Furthermore, the sample with 15 phr ZDMA presented the highest relative MR effect of 170%, which was 45% higher than that without ZDMA.

DOI: 10.1088/1361-665X/ab62e0