2018 年 3 巻 p. 3-24
Magnetic fluids are a kind of magnetic functional fluids, and they are stable colloidal dispersions of nano-sized magnetic particles in a carrier liquid. Magnetic fluids are available to satisfy particular applications in technological and biomedical fields. It is necessary to know basic characteristics of magnetic fluids in order to realize a wide range of applications. In this review paper, physical properties of magnetic particles, general structure of magnetic fluids, magnetization characteristics, interfacial phenomena, rheological characteristics, and some applications proposed by the author etc. are described. In particular, interfacial phenomena of magnetic fluids under magnetic fields and several micro magnetic fluid devices composed of magnetic fluid and small permanent magnet are detailed.