Electrical conductivity in kerosene-based ferrofluid under DC potential

This study investigates the direct current behavior of a kerosene-based ferrofluid. Experimental data reveal linear current–voltage (I–V) characteristics, measured using slab-shaped cells with platinum electrodes. A polarization voltage of a few millivolts is observed, which is attributed to electric polarization effects. This phenomenon is interpreted through a model based on adsorption processes. The I–V characteristics are explained by the dissociation of surface ligands on the nanoparticles, generating ionic charges responsible for conduction. The dissociation process follows a chemical equilibrium described as A⇌B++C−, governed by dissociation and recombination coefficients consistent with standard kinetic models.