Ferrofluid Panel Facade
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PROFESSOR: MARTINA DECKER
A panel facade containing ferrofluid, a magnetic nano-particle polymorphic liquid that uses low energy to create a media facade and utilizes the negative effects of solar heat gain through low albedo. The facade addresses the problem of urban heat island effect which is the increase of heat in urban areas due to man made materials and human activity. The panel facade uses low albedo (reflection of solar radiation) to absorb heat and transfer it to the interior when needed or reflect heat with the high albedo.
Ferrofluid is a magnetic colloidal suspension that is made up of a base liquid and magnetic nano-particles. Most commonly compromised of magnetite, iron, or cobalt. The base liquids are water or kerosene. Geometry of a ferrofluid droplet depends on the distance from a magnetic field.
Panel Prototype
(Top) Showing process of the full prototype and how a pattern can be formed.
(Left) Showing process of how magnets attached to the back of panel move the ferrofluid.
Material Testing
Thermal Test
Thermal absorption test using a heat lamp and a thermal infrared camera. Test shows the absorption of heat by the ferrofluid.
Section of Panel Prototype
Architectural Facade Application
Diagrams of different states absorbing heat
Panel Facade
Section