Generation of Negative Air Ions by Use of Piezoelectric Cold Plasma Generator

Abstract

The negative air ions (NAI) are used for the removal of particles or droplets from the air. In this study, three types of piezoelectric cold plasma generators (PCPG), in combination with cylindrical electrostatic ion filters, are applied for NAI production. The high voltage on the filter cylinder is induced by the electric field from the piezoelectric transformer of the PCPG. To achieve the dc bias, the cylinder of the electrostatic filter is connected to the ground over ultrafast switching diodes. The ion concentrations are measured for different airflows, PCPG powers, and electrostatic filter geometries. The NAI concentration in the order of magnitude of 107 cm−3, and a negative-to-positive ion concentration ratio of over 200 is reached. The production of ozone is evaluated and the PCPG configuration with a minimum ozone production rate is proposed. The ozone concentration below 60 ppb is reached in the airflow of 90 m3/h.

Keywords

• negative air ions
• atmospheric pressure plasma
• piezoelectric direct discharge
• ozone