Condensation-type quasi monodisperse aerosol generator with WOx nanoparticles as nuclei produced by glowing wire method

Abstract

A new condensation-type quasi monodisperse aerosol generator with WOx nanoparticles as condensation nuclei is investigated in this research. The nuclei are produced by glowing wire method. Compared with the traditional condensation-type aerosol generator reported previously, the new condensation-type aerosol generator does not use a high-pressure air source and aerosol dryer, as well as extends the lower limit of the final aerosol size to 50nm. All technical parameters are discussed, and the values of electrical current through tungsten wire, nuclei and vapor concentrations, and reheater and condensation temperatures are obtained. The current values of 5.0A to 5.2A produce sustainable and stable nuclei. A substantially higher nuclei concentration can depress the aerosol homogeneous condensation. Vapor concentration can adjust the size distribution of the final aerosol and change the saturation temperature; vapor flow rate can have equal advantage. A critical reheater temperature is noted to completely evaporate the condensated vapor. Condensation temperature between 15°C and 21°C hardly influences the size distribution of the final aerosol. Finally, stability, sustainability, and reproducibility of the nuclei, as well as the final aerosol, are all successfully verified.