Hydrogel dynamics in oscillating magnetic fields

This study explores the dynamic response of a nanoparticle- filled hydrogel exposed to an oscillating magnetic field. The hydrogel, modeled as an Oldroyd-B viscoelastic fluid, contains superparamagnetic nanoparticles in both free and captured states. Time-dependent particle exchange induces multiperiodic behavior driven by both the magnetic field and the hydrogel’s elastic frequency. Numerical simulations reveal a bifurcation between elastic and viscous regimes, influenced by key dimensionless parameters. The results demonstrate the complex interplay between magnetic forces and viscoelasticity, offering potential strategies for manipulating hydrogel motion and enhancing biofilm disruption.