Research
Liquid metal slug driven by a rotating magnetic field
(Main investigator: Jihoo Moon)
A slug of liquid metal, such as eutectic gallium-indium alloy (EGain), can be driven by a rotating magnetic field. This method holds high potential for future applications in various fields, such as soft electronics, robotics and medical engineering, as it enables remote control of pure liquid metals without using electric fields. We study the driving mechanism of a liquid metal slug under a rotating magnetic field through experiments and simulations. Additionally, we experimentally investigate the role of a slip layer between the liquid metal slug and the bottom surface and numerically model such effect for the simulations. Furthermore, the spatial distributions of induced current and Lorentz force fields within the volume of liquid metal generated by a rotating magnetic field are examined from the simulation results.
Lorentz–force activated oscillating jet
(Main investigator: Jaewuk Jung)
In this study, an oscillating jet activated by Lorentz-force is suggested as an innovative way to deflect jets at an arbitrary frequency and amplitude in conductive fluids. An apparatus consisting of carbon electrodes and permanent NeFeB magnets surrounding the nozzle end is devised so that a lateral Lorentz force generates a crossflow that deflects the fluid jet. Trajectories and flow structures of vectored and oscillating jets as electromagnetic and fluid variables changes are investigated. We expect the new method to be beneficial in enhanced mixing and flow control in liquid metal cooling and marine applications.
