Electrorheological fluids based on inorganic nanoparticles for robotic applications

Abstract

The development of novel ER fluids based on nanostructured inorganic materials (single or mixed metal oxide, zeolites) dispersed in silicon oil is currently underway in our laboratories. Here, we describe the design of a new rheometer able to characterize the rheological properties of these ER fluids. An example of the use of ER fluids based on inorganic nanoparticles in transmitting forces for robotic applications is also reported. © 2010 Springer Science+Business Media B.V.