Ferrofluid double emulsion generation and manipulation under magnetic fields

Abstract

Magnetically controlled double emulsions offer a promising tool for targeted drug delivery. Here, the effect of a non-uniform magnetic field induced by a permanent magnet on ferrofluid double emulsion generation and morphology is studied. In the numerical part, the double emulsion (and its ferrofluid core) migration was analyzed for different transverse distances of the magnet from the channel centerline (Ly) and different core and shell diameters. In the experimental part, water-based ferrofluid is encapsulated in a UV-curable polymer phase in water, forming a W/O/W double emulsion. As the magnet’s downstream distance from the ferrofluid junction reduces, the core aspect ratio increases while its diameter decreases. Finally, the core eccentricity was calibrated with Ly, and by shining a UV light, this core eccentricity was affixed inside the UV-curable medium. These double emulsions can then rearrange and orient under a uniform magnetic field for more efficient targeted drug delivery.