Magneto-induced deformation and wave absorption characteristics of magnetically responsive bimaterial layered structures

Abstract Magnetorheological elastomers (MREs) are advanced smart materials composed of magnetosensitive particles embedded in a flexible matrix, where the particle distribution and properties significantly influence their mechanical and electromagnetic behaviors. In this study, layered MRE samples with alternating soft and hard magnetic particle layers were fabricated using 3D printing and subjected to a comprehensive investigation of their deformation and electromagnetic absorption characteristics. Experimental tests and finite element simulations revealed that the deformation capacity of MREs is primarily governed by the arrangement of soft and hard magnetic layers. This reflects a complex interplay among the material’s Young’s modulus, the magnitude and direction of the applied magnetic field, and the orientation of remanent magnetization. Notably, the compression modulus does not always increase with field strength; when the remanent magnetization opposes the magnetic field, the modulus decreases as the field intensifies. Furthermore, the electromagnetic wave absorption properties of the MREs were found to improve with higher percentages of soft magnetic materials, with the SHS-type materials demonstrating enhanced absorption bandwidth and peak absorption values. These results offer critical insights for optimizing the design and performance of MREs in applications requiring tunable mechanical and electromagnetic properties.