A new organic/inorganic hybrid with high electrorheological activity

In-situ sol-gel method to prepare colloidal hybrids of surfactant modified polysucchride and titanium oxide has been presented, and experiments indicated these highly ER active particles exhibited a remarkable ER effect. The static shear stress can be up to 37 k Pa (shear rate 5 S^-1) under DC field of 4 kV/mm at room temperature, well above that of simple blends of starch and TiO₂. In the meanwhile, temperature dependence and sedimentation stability were also greatly improved. Based on recent experimental facts, we find that dielectric properties and surface (interface) activity are two necessary conditions fulfilling the requirement of high ER activity. Adequate grinding of particles with oil can effectively enhance the shear stress, which may be owed to the decline of the activation energy needed for restructuring. It has provided us a new horizon for preparation of excellent ER materials and further studies should be continued to make.