Research Symposium

BIO

Isaac Watzman is a physics major at Florida State University, from Orlando, with interests in classical and theoretical physics. Isaac aims to pursue a career in particle physics research in a laboratory setting and is passionate about mathematical frameworks to study how the universe operates.

High-Gradient Magnetic Separation of Magnetic Nanoparticles Using Elliptical Shaped Wire

Abstract

High-gradient magnetic separation (HGMS) is an effective technique for
manipulating and separating weak magnetic particles in fluid media. In this study,
we investigate the influence of collector geometry on magnetophoretic particle
capture by comparing circular and elliptical wires under identical magnetic field
conditions. A finite element–based COMSOL Multiphysics framework was used to
solve the coupled magnetic field, laminar flow, and convective-diffusive transport
equations governing particle motion.
Magnetic flux density and magnetic field gradient distributions were analyzed for
different aspect ratios to quantify their effect on local field amplification and particle
capture efficiency. The results show that elliptical wires significantly modify the
spatial distribution of magnetic flux density and enhance magnetic field gradients
near the wire surface compared to circular geometry. The intensified magnetic field
gradients near the surface of the elliptical collector, particularly at its sharper
curvature regions (the major-axis tips), lead to stronger magnetophoretic forces and
improved particle accumulation. Time-dependent concentration profiles further
demonstrate that aspect ratio plays a critical role in determining separation
efficiency, with elongated geometries promoting faster and more localized particle
capture.
This study provides fundamental insight into the role of collector shape in high-
gradient magnetic separation systems. The findings highlight the potential of
geometry-driven optimization to enhance separation performance in applications
such as mineral processing, wastewater treatment, biomedical engineering, and
environmental remediation.

Keywords: Physics, Chemistry, Simulation