The quality of dust separation during gas cleaning processes by surface filters is strongly dominated by the particle structures on the filter medium, the filter cake. While research concerning the filtration of inert particles has already lead to major reductions in emissions and energy consumption by these processes, the fundamental mechanisms taking place during the filtration in a non-ideal system, such as dust filtration in the presence of soluble particles and liquid aerosol are still unknown.

This research project examines theoretically and experimentally, how liquid aerosol in the presence of soluble particles in the filter cake will affect the operating conditions of surface filters.

The scanning electron microscope (SEM) shows the restructured, open layer of salt particles on a fiberglass filter medium after the filter cake has been treated with water aerosol.