The experimental and simulation investigation of the dynamic characteristic of submicron-scale aerosol in high-voltage electric field by a visualization method

Abstract

The high-voltage electric field can effectively capture charged aerosols and has the effect of killing microbial aerosols simultaneously. In this article, an innovative visualization method for investigating the dynamic characteristic of submicron-scale aerosol particles in the high-voltage electric field is developed. Based on reasonable working principles and reliable experimental schemes, the movement of submicron-scale aerosol particles is observed and visualization images in different working conditions are photographed. Besides, with the aid of numerical method and solution of related equations, simulation researches on flow field distribution, electrostatic field characteristics, particle charging and motion behavior characteristics are also carried out. Visualization results prove the linear motion law of aerosol particles in an electric field of 0–3 kV/cm unit. As for 1 µm diameter particle, its migration velocity in 1 kV/cm electric field is measured as 0.016 m/s and 0.019 m/s after positive and negative charging of 1.5 kV voltage, respectively. A reliable calculation formula (η=(VjqpLj)/(3πμD2uxdp)) for predicting collection efficiency is derived and established based on actual particle migration velocity. The researches on the migration and capture law of submicron-scale aerosol in the high voltage electric field gives a key reference for the development and design of efficient removal of microbial aerosol and air purification equipment.