Development of power generation device using inverse magnetostriction effect of elastomer material dispersed with magnetic powder

Elastomer dispersed with magnetic particles can deform under a magnetic field. It alsochanges its permeability by deformation. These phenomena are similar with magnetostriction and inverse magnetostriction effects, so that the elastomer could be classified as a magnetostriction material in a broad category. Generally, the magnetostriction effect is based on the interaction between atoms, while the effect in the elastomer is caused by interaction between magnetic particles in its body. As the inverse magnetostriction effect is available for power generation, the elastomer with particles would be used as a power generator. In the present work, silicone rubber and some steel powders were prepared as base materials of the magnetic elastomer for power generation. The rubber and powder were mixed and cured to shape cylindrical specimen, and subsequentlyelectric wire was looped around the specimen to make a coil. The specimen was set between permanent magnets and was vibrated. The output voltage was measured from the coil. We prepared some kinds of specimens changing dispersed magnetic powder, vibration frequency, and orientation of particles' chain. The power generation efficiency was evaluated, and was discussed using some results of magnetic finite element analysis.