Experimental Studies of Electrically Active Fibrous Filter Loading

Abstract

AbstractElectrically active fibrous filters, that is fibrous filters whose fibres carry a permanent electric charge, are an increasingly popular alternative to conventional fibrous filters in applications where low pressure drop and high collection efficiencies are critical. The advantage of these materials is the additional collection efficiency, due to electrostatic mechanisms, that can be achieved without pressure drop increase. The efficiency of these materials can fall as they are loaded with aerosol particles, so it is necessary that proper account be taken of this process during use. A complete understanding of the mechanisms responsible for this reduction in efficiency has not yet been reached. An experimental study has been undertaken at Loughborough University of Technology investigating the loading behaviour of a mixed fibre type electrically active material. The experimental techniques used in this work and experimental findings with a range of aerosol particle sizes are reported here.