Reconfigurable magneto-mechanical metamaterials guided by magnetic fields

Abstract In this work, we show through the use of experiments validated by computer simulations the potential of a novel accordion-like magneto-mechanical metamaterial to change its linear dimensions in a controllable manner upon being subjected to a uniform external magnetic field, a system which essentially acts as an actuator guided by a magnetic field. We also show that irrespective of the magnitude of the external magnetic field, this system can return to its initial shape due to the appropriate distribution of magnetic inclusions within the system. Finally, it is also shown that the proposed accordion-like system can be considered as a building block for a larger three-dimensional system where its properties may undergo a transition from positive to negative Poisson’s ratio, depending solely on the magnitude and the orientation of the external magnetic field. This concept is very interesting from the point of view of numerous applications such as protective materials or vibration dampers where the mechanical properties of the material could be fine-tuned to increase its efficiency without the need of reconstructing the system.