What is in magnetic putty that makes it magnetic?

Asked by SergeantQueen (12995

) February 25th, 2017

I have some magnetic putty- it’s a purple, stretchy, putty that came with a small magnet. The magnet is attracted to the putty and it’s a lot of fun to play with. I was wondering what is inside of the putty that makes the magnet stick to it. I was thinking that maybe they put small pieces of some sort of metal but then I think that would just separate from the putty to get to the magnet.

Observing members: 0

Composing members: 0

4 Answers

Probably powdered iron oxide.

Lightlyseared (34863

)“Great Answer” (4

) Flag as…

Probably Steel powder. I make steel filled adhesives and the purple color makes sense since steel affects a very dark color when added to a solution.

Cruiser (40454

)“Great Answer” (2

) Flag as…

You can test it. (I LOVE science) It might be magnetic material and not just metal filings. See if it picks up metal things. It it does, than, the putty it also magnetic. I bought some for my son a few years ago and we have loads of fun with it.

cazzie (24516

)“Great Answer” (2

) Flag as…

According to Google it is black iron oxide which makes sense as another site promotes the ability to “charge” the putty with the included neodymium magnet.

Cruiser (40454

)“Great Answer” (1

) Flag as…