A Point-to-Plane Electrostatic Precipitator for Particle Size Sampling

Abstract

Abstract A point-to-plane electrostatic precipitator of simple design is described. It was developed as a particle size sampling instrument for use with the electron microscope. The standard operating conditions as well as special design and technical points are described and illustrated. Tests of the instrument have been made using the thermal precipitator as a standard. These comparisons have indicated no important limitation of the point-to-plane precipitator as a particle size sampler. Other advantages and disadvantages of the instrument based on our experience are given. Most of these points are documented by photographs. None of the negative qualities of the sampler appear general or restrictive. Conversely, there are specific attributes which make the point-to-plane electrostatic precipitator a valuable, if not indispensable, tool in aerosol studies.