Magnetic Emulsions as Prospective Magneto-Optical Media

The optical properties of magnetic emulsions with microdroplets of a magnetic fluid in hydraulic oil under the influence of a magnetic field are investigated. It is shown that the optical transmittance of a magnetic emulsion can be controlled by changing the strength and direction of the magnetic field. With prolonged exposure to a magnetic field, diffraction of light occurs in a magnetic emulsion, the intensity and shape of the diffraction pattern are determined by the field parameters. It is shown that magnetic emulsions can be a promising medium for controlled neutral optical filters and magneto-optical sensors.