The multi-chain interactions of electrorheological fluids

We present a method of calculating the interaction between two particles in a single chain and between two chains in different structures in a non-polar liquid by using the equivalent conductivity plate concept. With this method, we obtain the quasi-static shear force-strain relationships and yield stresses of single-chain, 2D close-packed, rectangular and 3D BCT structures. By comparing the yield stresses with that of a single chain, we draw the conclusions that the interactions between chains in 2D close-packed and BCT structures enhance their yield stresses and that the enhancement becomes more significant as the number of chains increases, whereas the interactions between chains in a 2D rectangular structure weaken its yield stress. These results reveal the significant and distinct contribution of the structure of an electrorheological fluid to its yield stress.