Electrostatic capture and agglomeration of particles emitted by diesel engines

Abstract

Although the diesel engine is very popular because of its high efficiency, it is less desirable due to the emission of fine carbon particles which are particularly dangerous for their effect on human lungs. In spite of a large number of solutions for the capture and agglomeration of these fine particles, there are very few studies using electrostatic precipitators for the purpose of collection and agglomeration of these particles. In a project at the University of Quebec at Chicoutimi, a small electrostatic precipitator was designed for working with a 3.5 hp diesel motor. This model made it possible to capture the particles and cause them to agglomerate with a relatively high efficiency up to 95%. The present paper describes the design and the performance of the above electrostatic precipitator which has good potential for future development.< >