Characterization of electrode material for electrostatic spray charging: Theoretical and engineering practices

A new electrode material such as Nickel (200/201 forged bar) is used for spray charging. Comparative study has been made using different materials electrode viz. Nickel, Copper, Stainless Steel, Brass, and Aluminum; electrodes were ring shape with same inner diameter 15.0 mm and outer diameter of 22.0 mm of thickness 3.5 mm. The experiments were conducted in air atmosphere at ambient conditions (T = 20 ± 2 °C, RH = 46 ± 3%), with an air feed rate of 24.6 l/min, liquid feed rate 90.0 ml/min and applied voltage ranging from 0 to +3.0 kV. The results of applied induction electrification process were characterized by a charge-to-mass factor as a function of electrode material.

► Role of electrode material in spray charging has been explained.
► Nickel has been used as an electrode material for spray charging.
►  Theoretical justifications on work function, Fermi energy, and stability of material.
► Nickel gave good results compared to other electrode materials.