Effect of emulsion as liquid phase on ER properties of electrorheological fluid

Taking an emulsion system as the continuous medium of electrorheological (ER) fluid, the effect of emulsion on the ER behavior was investigated. The emulsion system, composing of dimethyl silicone oil and dimethyl sulfoxide, was prepared by the ultrasonic technique. Dielectric measurements showed that the dielectric constant, conductivity and dielectric loss tangent of the emulsion system increased with the content of dimethyl sulfoxide. The shear stress of ER fluid in the dc electric field was examined. Comparing with dispersed in pure silicone oil the optimal ER performance was found when Ce-doped TiO₂ or BatiO₃ particles were dispersed in this emulsion system.