Self-consistent model of field gradient driven particle aggregation in magnetic fluids

Particle aggregation in magnetic colloids driven by strong magnetic field gradients is studied using self-consistent field calculations. The model takes into account field screening due to average fluid magnetization and demagnetizing field arising from spatially varying magnetic particle concentration. Solutions for the problem of particle aggregation due to a single magnetic pole demonstrate that, in high particle concentration, the magnetic field must be calculated self-consistently. © 2005 American Institute of Physics.