Investigating the collection efficiency of ULPA filters for the removal of nano-sized aerosols

Background and aims: With the increasing application of nanotechnology concerns about the negative effects of human exposure and environmental releases of these particles is also doubled. Among the most well-known media, ULPA filters are used to control nanoparticles. In this study, the efficiency and pressure drop of ULPA fiber bed for collection and removal of nanoparticles were investigated. Methods: ULPA filter efficiency and pressure drop was measured by using nano-scale aerosol particle size range 70 -700 nm sucrose at different flow rates 1.58 - 5 cm.s -1. The ULPA filter used had a thickness of 0.4 mm. A cylindrical test system was constructed as a form of stainless steel with a filtration surface of 0.013m2. Desired particles were generated using Electrospray 3480 model particle generator. Condensation particle counter CPC Models 5.410 Gream Company was implemented to measure particle number concentration before and after filter bed and to calculate the performance. Results: Results showed that the maximum amount of substrate permeability of ULPA media (independent of the velocity rate) was for the particles of 100 nm and it was determined as the MPPS in this media. However, data analysis revealed a significant relationship between diameter and efficiency parameters of the MPPS (negative), and the MPPS (positive). Conclusion: The ULPA media used in this study with the MPPS particles of 100 nm can be introduced as a particles control substrate for experimental conditions presented in the study.