Ultrasonic Nebulisation of Fluids with Different Viscosities and Surface Tensions

Abstract

Little information has been published relating the physicochemical properties of nebuliser fluids to the size of ultrasonically generated aerosols. This study addressed this and involved nebulising a wide range of fluid systems in two ultrasonic nebulisers - the Medix Electronic and the Easimist. While the droplet size appeared to be proportional to viscosity, no clear overall correlation was established between surface tension and droplet size. The more viscous solutions had longer nebulisation times and lower total and respirable outputs. Cut-off values for viscosity and surface tension (above or below which the devices could not operate) were noted.