Magnetomechanical and Magnetothermal Coupling in Ferrohydrogels

By merging soft, hydrogel-based matrices with nanoscopic inorganic nanoparticles to organic-inorganic hybrid materials, novel properties can arise from the unique interplay of the components 'properties. The introduction of magnetic nanoparticles of different size and shape into hydrophilic polymer network architectures leads to nano- or macroscopic hybrid gel structures that respond to magnetic fields in a predetermined way. A variety of complex gel structures are designed that allow a mutual interaction of their mechanical and thermal properties. In this review, we highlight recent accomplishments and trends in the field of magnetically active hybrid hydrogels, and conclude with an outline on future prospects in the design and application of magnetic soft matter with particle-matrix interaction.