Two-phase volume-averaged predictive theory of dilute ferrofluid spin-up flow in a rotating magnetic field

Abstract

We have developed a parameter-free, two-phase, volume-averaged approach to predictively describe the spin-up flow of dilute, cluster-free ferrofluids excited by low-frequency rotating magnetic fields. Predictive validation of the model was performed through a thorough comparison with local velocity profile measurements, and it demonstrated its ability to capture the spin-up flow dynamics without the need for parameter tuning by carefully delineating the validity domain of the ferrofluid dilutedness conditions. To gain insight into the underlying flow mechanisms, we performed a systematic parametric analysis examining the effects of the induced magnetic field, the dipolar interactions between magnetic nanoparticles and the demagnetizing field. How these mechanisms shape the flow of dilute ferrofluids excited by low-frequency rotating fields in a standard spin-up flow geometry has been addressed using probabilistic nanoparticle orientational dynamics, combining Faxén's laws and the Smoluchowski equation to describe the transport of particle magnetic moments. Our findings revealed that the induced magnetic field is the primary driving force of ferrofluid spin-up flow. The dipole interactions and demagnetizing field, on the other hand, contribute only as secondary phenomena to the overall flow behaviour. Furthermore, we have discussed the potential extension of the two-phase approach, in particular with respect to the formation of chain-like aggregates under the influence of strong magnetic fields. Overall, our study provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics of ferrofluid flow and contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the key mechanisms governing the spin-up flow of dilute ferrofluids excited by low-frequency rotating magnetic fields.