Journal of Materials Science, Vol.42, No.19, 8242-8247, 2007
Controlled formation of dielectric chain aggregates on material surfaces
This paper investigated the formation of chain aggregates from fine particles suspended in gas stream onto material surfaces under the action of electric field. The results showed that the shape of aggregate formed on material surface was greatly influenced by the field intensity and the surface condition of materials. In a weak electric field without corona discharge, particles tended to form clustered aggregates on a metal plate with smooth surface, but on a metal mesh and a porous alumina substrate, to form chain aggregate. On the other hand, in a corona discharge field, these surfaces were coated uniformly. Consequently, for forming chain aggregates on material surface, an electric field without corona discharge and a rough surface are necessary conditions. On rough surface, chain aggregates of dielectric particles or conductive particles grew from the protrusions of the surface and could form a rough and porous layer. When the external electric field was removed, the chain aggregates remained long time due to the Van der Waals forces. After sintered at proper temperature, the chain aggregates became fiber-like. The results indicate that the formation of chain aggregate can be controlled by electrostatic force, and sintering can be used as a method for increasing their mechanical strength.