Effect of Wire Spacing and Air Velocity on the Electrostatic Precipitation of Nanoparticles

Abstract

Although electrostatic precipitators are commonly used in the removal of particulate matter, the use of this equipment in the removal of nanoparticles needs to be further elucidated. Thus, this study’s objective was to evaluate the use of a single-stage, wire-plate electrostatic precipitator in the collection of sodium chloride nanoparticles using aerosol velocities of 1.9, 2.9, and 3.9 cm/s and voltages of 8.4, 8.8, and 9.2 kV. Three discharge electrodes (wires) were used and spaced 4, 6, and 12 cm apart for evaluation. It was evidenced that the increase in voltage favors the collection of nanoparticles, with efficiencies of 99.9% for the voltage of 9.2 kV. The increase in wire spacing increased the current inside the equipment and improved the collection efficiency, with greater variations in the voltage of 8.8 kV. The prevalence of electric forces at low gas velocities led the particle collection under these conditions.KeywordsElectrostatic precipitationNanoparticlesEnvironmental controlAtmospheric pollutionWire spacing