Effect of flow geometry on the nanoparticle output of a spark discharge generator

Spark discharge nanoparticle generators (SDGs) employ the method of spark ablation to generate nanoparticles (NPs) in gas phase. The material plume ablated from two bulk electrodes is quenched and carried away by a controlled flow. electrical circuit needed maintain sparking gas/aerosol handling are usually rather simple implement, therefore many different SDG designs exist literature. Since carrier plays an important role particle formation, actual flow field inside chamber might also affect properties generated particles. In this technical note we systematically investigate size distribution Ag NPs various conditions. Size measurements used compare cross-, coaxial-, mixed geometries at inlet aerosol outlet distances, directions volumetric rates complemented with steady simulations. mechanisms behind results briefly discussed.