Electrostatic Smoke Precipitation

This demonstration models how an electrostatic smoke precipitator removes particulate matter (like smoke or ash) from the air using high voltage. Charged particles are attracted to oppositely charged plates and separated from the air stream, simulating industrial air purification systems used in power plants and factories.

1. Gather materials: a high-voltage DC module, two paper cups or a plastic bottle, aluminum foil, copper wire, incense stick (smoke source), battery pack, and insulating tape or glue.
2. Create the negative electrode by twisting or soldering several copper wires to form multiple sharp points (branched structure). Attach this inside the neck of a plastic bottle or top paper cup.
3. Prepare the positive electrode by lining the inner surface of another cup with aluminum foil and connecting it to the opposite terminal of the high-voltage module.
4. Cut small holes at the bottom and top of the setup to allow smoke to pass through. Ensure the smoke first passes the negative electrode and then reaches the positive electrode.
5. Place an incense stick or other smoke source near the bottom opening to generate visible smoke.
6. Turn on the high-voltage supply briefly (less than one minute). Observe the reduction of smoke emerging from the outlet as charged particles collect on the positive plate.
7. After running, inspect the positive electrode for visible soot or dust deposits.
8. Turn off the power supply before handling the device or cleaning up.

Electrostatic Precipitator/Smoke Precipitator - How it Works/How to Make - RimstarOrg:

Electrostatic Smoke Precipitator - Mousa - Simple Projects:

📄 Electrostatic Smoke Precipitation - abhilash_patel: https://www.instructables.com/Electrostatic-Smoke-Precipitation/

• Use different voltages to test the effect of electric field strength on particle collection efficiency.
• Compare different electrode materials or shapes (wire mesh, flat plates, multiple spikes).
• Construct a transparent chamber to better visualize smoke reduction.
• Use fine powders (e.g., flour dust) to test the device with heavier particles.

• Exercise extreme caution - high voltage is present even if current is low.
• Never touch electrodes or wiring while the device is powered.
• Operate the setup for short periods (under one minute) to prevent overheating.
• Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling smoke.
• Keep flammable materials away from the smoke source and electrical components.
• Disconnect power supply completely before making adjustments.

• How does charging smoke particles help remove them from the air? (Ionized particles are attracted to oppositely charged plates, separating them from airflow.)
• Why is a sharp electrode used as the charging electrode? (Sharp points create a strong electric field that promotes corona discharge and ionization.)
• What are some industrial applications of electrostatic precipitation? (Used in coal power plants, cement factories, and metal smelting to reduce air pollution.)
• What are the advantages of electrostatic precipitators over traditional filters? (They remove fine particles efficiently with minimal airflow resistance.)
• What factors could influence the efficiency of the system? (Voltage strength, particle charge, airflow speed, and plate spacing.)