Abstract
Some recent advances in our understanding of the mechanisms governing the flow behaviour of electro-rheological fluids and concentrated particulate suspensions are reviewed. For both systems an overview is presented of theoretical models based on interparticle forces and assumed microstructure, as well as of recent experimental studies which highlight features to be incorporated in future models, such as the effect on electro-rheological fluids of mixing particles with different sizes or electrical conductivities. It is apparent that models based on simplified microstructures can illuminate many of the physical mechanisms of these complex fluid systems.
