TA Instruments recently introduced a system for the characterization of magneto-rheological (MR) fluids. The magneto-rheology accessory for the Discovery hybrid rheometer reportedly enables parallel-plate and cone-plate rheological measurements under the influence of a controlled field at temperatures as high as 170°C and fields as high as 1 Tesla.

MR fluids are one class of “smart fluids,” which are fluids that can have their flow properties change greatly and reversibly by the application of an external stimulus, such as a magnetic field. These advanced materials have current and potential applications in fields such as advanced automotive bearings and suspensions, tunable polishing slurries, and ballistic defense. The MR accessory from TA Instruments can be used in conjunction with a Discovery hybrid rheometer for complete rheological characterization of these materials under controlled temperature, deformation, and magnetic field up to 1 Tesla.

 For more information, call (302) 427-1033, email emoriarty@tainstruments.com, or visit www.tainstruments.com.