A strategy for the assembly of three-dimensional mesoscopic structures using a ferrofluid

A novel technique for the self-assembly of three-dimensional mesoscopic structures in a forced fluid flow by employing a magnetic field is described. There are advantages of using magnetic fields for this purpose: unlike many other forces, a magnetic force is effective even from a distance, permitting “action at a distance,” it is also localized, and competition between the magnetic force and fluid shear enables unique self-assembled ferrofluid …