Development and characterization of magnetite reinforced nanocomposites for electromagnetic responsiveness and smart material applications

Nanocomposite materials have garnered significant attention in advanced materials science due to their unique ability to exhibit multifunctional properties, particularly in the realm of magnetism and electromagnetic responsiveness. This study focuses on the development and characterization of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) polymer matrix reinforced with ferromagnetic iron oxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticles. The primary objective was to investigate the electromagnetic properties of the nanocomposite and evaluate its potential for use in smart materials, sensors, and actuators via 4D printing. The nanocomposite was fabricated using a melt-mixing process, wherein Fe3O4 nanoparticles were incorporated into the ABS thermoplastic matrix at varying concentrations ranging from 10 to 20 wt. %. The mixture was then extruded into long, continuous 3D printing filaments and then to rectangular plates to facilitate testing and analysis. Its response to electromagnetic radiation was characterized by magnetic pull test using a 12 V DC Arduino-controller. An analytical model was developed and is validated using experiments. Experimental tests showed that the material exhibited significant magnetic receptiveness, by pulling and displacing the samples when subjected to applied magnetic field. The results indicated that increasing the concentration of Fe3O4 nanoparticles enhanced the material’s sensitivity, highlighting its potential for applications requiring precise control over magnetic interactions. Further, external magnetic field strength and sample dimensions are also shown to be significant parameters. In conclusion, this research underscores the potential of Fe3O4-reinforced polymer nanocomposites as a versatile and innovative material system for electromagnetic sensitivity.