Magnet Fundamentals and Iron Powder

[Shahsquatch]

I am creating a product that incorporates magnetic sensing of magnetic nanoparticles. However due to their cost, I have decided to search for other avenues of testing. My question is about whether Iron Powder will retain a magnetic field once magnetized.

I basically will place some iron powder in a small container above the sensor, and apply a uniform magnetic field perpendicular to the sensitive axis of the magnetic sensor (the magnetic sensor will not sense the applied magnetic field). Once I turn the field off, will the powder retain the magnetic orientation and produce its own magnetic field?

I theorize that it will due to iron powder being ferromagnetic, but am not sure, so any clarification would be appreciated.

Thanks!

 

[Navin A S]

Yes, iron powder will retain its magnetic field once magnetized. As long as the powder is ferromagnetic, it will act as a permanent magnet and hold its magnetization after the external magnetic field is removed. The strength of the retained magnetization will depend on the type of iron powder and the strength of the external field applied.