Research on preparation and stability of high viscosity carbon nanotube-modified PAO20-based magnetic fluids

The preparation of high-performance magnetic fluids with high viscosity, high saturation magnetization and high stability, has remained a pivotal challenge limiting the advancement of associated applications. In the present study, we synthesized modified magnetic nanoparticles through an innovative approach combining in-situ carbon nanotube (CNT) generation with chemical co-precipitation. These nanoparticles were then co-coated with OA/PIBA, resulting in the preparation of advanced PAO20-based magnetic fluids. The effects of CNT modification on particle microstructure and magnetic properties were studied by transmission electron microscopy and vibrating sample magnetometer, the magnetoviscous properties of magnetic fluids were studied by a rotating rheometer equipped with a magnetic field module, and the stability of the prepared magnetic fluids under a strong magnetic field was tested by a self-made LC oscillation circuit. The results show that the saturation magnetization of the prepared magnetic fluids surpasses 32 emu/g, while their viscosity reaches a remarkable 6625 mPa·s (at 0.24 T, 100 1/s shear rate and 25 °C), which is significantly higher than that of traditional magnetic fluids (usually about 100 mPa·s). Furthermore, when exposed to a 0.6 T magnetic field, the magnetic fluids could exhibit Rosensweig instability that persists for over 468 h. The stability is at least 93 times superior to that of unmodified PAO20-based magnetic fluids. Based on these encouraging results, it can be fully predicted that the CNT-modified PAO20-based magnetic fluids developed in this study will play a pivotal role in various applications, including sealing, lubrication, and vibration reduction. Their exceptional properties will hold immense promise for numerous engineering applications.