The “Ferrodome” allows you to play with Ferrofluid – a suspension of iron nanoparticles in oil. It is one of two exhibits I developed for the Vetenskapfestivalen. This stuff is great to play with, but very challenging to control in public space. Here is some more information about this fascinating material:
–Developed by NASA in the 1960’s as a rocket propellant that could be controlled by magnetic fields in the absence of gravity.
-Now used in automotive brake systems (Volvo, Mercedes) and hi-fi speakers
-A colloidal suspension of iron nanoparticles with an acidic surfricant to prevent clumping. Due to the size of the particles (+- 10 nm,) they exhibit Brownian motion – a sort of chaotic dance.
–The spikes are from a delicate interaction of the magnetic field lines, gravity, and surface tension.
-It is a challenging material – volatile, expensive, staining, jumping, playing, and inspiring.
Enjoy!