Antonio Veloso-Fernández , Sara Muñana-González , José Manuel Laza , Asier Aguilera-Grande , Daniel Salazar Jaramillo , Leire Ruiz-Rubio , Leyre Pérez-Alvaréz , Jose Luis Vilas-Vilela , Ana Catarina Lopes
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Magnetoactive polymer composites have garnered significant attention for their potential use in diverse applications, owing to their rapid and reversible response to external magnetic fields. By incorporating magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) into an elastomeric matrix, these composites exhibit unique properties under static or alternating magnetic fields. In this context, thermo-polyurethane-based magnetic active composites are promising materials for developing microfluidic system components such as valves and peristaltic pumps. In the current study, we investigated the utilization of cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4) magnetic nanoparticles in conjunction with a non-toxic synthesis method for polyurethane. It was explored the impact, on the overall success of the process, of cobalt ferrite nanoparticles incorporation at various stages of the thermo-polyurethane (TPU) synthesis reaction. Finally, the effects of different amounts of MNPs on the physicochemical properties of the resulting composites and their behavior as actuators under the influence of a magnetic field, was investigated. Our studies reveal that the actuator response of the composites increases proportionally with the percentage of MNPs present.
Finally, the performance of a TPU/7.5% (V/V) CoFe2O4 composite strip as a flow control actuator within a microfluidic system was evaluated. This actuator responds to magnetic fields by bending, resulting in a 10% reduction in flow rate of microfluidic system. Reversing the magnetic field restores the flow rate to its initial value. Our cyclic tests illustrate the actuator's capacity to locally and temporarily modulate the microfluidic system's resistance. When combined with tailored TPU elasticity, these materials show significant potential for the fabrication of microfluidic valves and pumps.
期刊介绍:
Reactive & Functional Polymers provides a forum to disseminate original ideas, concepts and developments in the science and technology of polymers with functional groups, which impart specific chemical reactivity or physical, chemical, structural, biological, and pharmacological functionality. The scope covers organic polymers, acting for instance as reagents, catalysts, templates, ion-exchangers, selective sorbents, chelating or antimicrobial agents, drug carriers, sensors, membranes, and hydrogels. This also includes reactive cross-linkable prepolymers and high-performance thermosetting polymers, natural or degradable polymers, conducting polymers, and porous polymers.
Original research articles must contain thorough molecular and material characterization data on synthesis of the above polymers in combination with their applications. Applications include but are not limited to catalysis, water or effluent treatment, separations and recovery, electronics and information storage, energy conversion, encapsulation, or adhesion.