Field effect in the viscosity of magnetic colloids studied by multi-particle collision dynamics

Colloidal solutions of magnetic nanoparticles are usually employed when the fluidity and magnetic properties are required at the same time, either in technical or biomedical applications. However, when the magnetic size of the nanoparticles is large enough (>12–15 nm) the colloid may form an equilibrium structure with or without the external magnetic field, which can significantly influence its rheology. Using multi-particle collision dynamics we study the internal structure and viscosity of the magnetic colloids at varying magnitudes of the externally applied field. We show a generalized structural behavior across all studied regimes and an appreciable increase of flow resistance with magnetic field.