Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
726963 | Journal of Electrostatics | 2012 | 11 Pages |
Simultaneous ion concentration and potential gradient measurements were made at AC high voltage power lines using ion mobility spectrometers and electric field mills. A significant (p < 0.01) change in central tendency and variability of ion concentration and potential gradient can occur downwind of power lines. In 3 out of 8 downwind measurements, there was a discrepancy of sign between the overall mean of these quantities, attributed to ion dispersion and ion–aerosol attachment. While ion concentrations give a greater indication of personal exposure, potential gradient measurements are more appropriate for assessment of the behaviour of a power line.
► We measured ion concentration and atmospheric potential gradient upwind and downwind of 5 HV power lines. ► There was an increase in ion concentration and a change in potential gradient. ► On some occasions, there was a discrepancy of sign between potential gradient and net ion charge. ► The discrepancy was attributed to ion dispersion and ion–aerosol attachment.