Ferrofluids, or fluids imbued with magnetically charged particles, were first developed by NASA for use in rocket fuel. Today, they find applications ranging from art and displays to high-end speaker systems. The fluid makes speakers more energy efficient and helps them achieve a louder, cleaner sound for their size.
In the zero gravity environment of space, one engineering challenge facing rocket designers is making sure their rocket fuel will feed into the engine and not just float in the fuel tank. One technology NASA developed to solve this challenge resulted in the creation of ferrofluid, a magnetized fluid that can be controlled using electricity and magnets.
Learn more about how NASA helped develop technology that impacts magnetic-fluid speakers within your home's living room environment!