Properties of ER fluids comprised of liquid crystalline polymers

Side-chain liquid crystalline polysiloxanes (LCS) diluted with solvents sho w a large increase in viscosity and a newtonian flow under an electric fiel d. Two types of solvent-diluted LCSs, A and BI are presented and their propert ies are described in this paper. Type A shows a large temperature-dependent ER effect a quick response of msec. order to an electric field and a dynam ic behavior similar to that of a low molecular weight liquid crystal. Type B shows a stable ER effect throughout a wide range of temperatures up to 15 0 degrees C a two-step response of shear stress curve upon application of D C electric field and a micron-sized droplets structure which deforms with t he electric field. The generation mechanisms of ER effect oil the two types were discussed with the data of dynamic and morphological changes. referri ng those on a low molecular liquid crystal and a particle dispersion type E R fluid.