Equilibrium theory for magnetic elastomers and magnetoelastic membranes

A theory for the equilibrium response of magnetoelastic membranes under pressure and applied magnetic fields is formulated on the basis of three-dimensional magnetoelasticity. A variational principle admitted by the three-dimensional theory is used to generate a model for membranes regarded as thin three-dimensional bodies. Minimum energy considerations in the presence of applied magnetic fields are used to motivate a direct theory of magnetoelastic membranes which does not require information about bulk properties. The theory is applicable to conventional elastomers magnetized through infusion with uniformly dispersed ferrous particles. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.