Pore orientation using magnetic fields
AssigneesMassachusetts Institute of Technology, Northeastern University
InventorsJonathan Samuel Sander, Yet-Ming Chiang, Randall Morgan Erb
Life of this patent
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Abstract
The use of magnetic fields in the production of porous articles is generally described. Certain embodiments comprise exposing a matrix to a magnetic field such that particles within the matrix form one or more elongated regions (e.g., one or more regions in which the particles chain). In some embodiments, after the magnetic field has been applied, the particles and/or a liquid within the matrix can be at least partially removed. Removal of the particles and/or the liquid can leave behind anisotropic pores within the remainder of the matrix material.
Claims23
A method, comprising:
- exposing a matrix comprising a liquid and fugitive particles to a magnetic field such that the magnetic field causes at least a portion of the fugitive particles to chain;
- and
- at least partially removing the fugitive particles from the matrix to form anisotropic pores within the matrix.
19-20. (canceled)
A method, comprising:
- exposing a matrix comprising a magnetic fluid and particles to a magnetic field such that the magnetic field causes at least a portion of the particles to chain;
- and
- at least partially removing the magnetic fluid from the matrix to form anisotropic pores within the matrix.
22-47. (canceled)
An article comprising:
- a porous article comprising pores at least partially defined by a set of particles removed from the article, the set of particles removed from the article being aligned in an elongated orientation.
49-73. (canceled)
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.