Three-dimensional self-assembly of structures using the pressure due to a ferrofluid in a magnetic field gradient

We developed an inexpensive and simple system for three-dimensional self-assembly of micron-sized nonmagnetic particles into millimeter-scale structures using the differential pressure exerted by ferrofluids in the presence of magnetic field gradients. We demonstrate it by assembling separate individual 5, 10, and 21 mu m diam polystyrene beads into millimeter-sized spherical and ellipsoidal structures. The system can also self-organize its smaller components by volume and provide compressive forces of hundreds of piconewtons on millimeter-scale structures. Extensions of this method have assembled multicellular systems. (c) 2006 American Institute of Physics.