Effect of Organic Solvent Exposure on Electret Filtration

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to show that the electret filter media is affected by chemicals in the liquid phase. The work done by various other researchers validates the hypothesis that chemical vapors has little effect on the filter performance. But the existing methods of experimentation only show single phase results. The method described in this thesis represents a controlled approach to analyze the reduction of filtration effciency when exposed to chemicals in both liquid as well as vapor phase. The method clearly characterizes the flow and shows significant change in data to validate the experimental work done. This study does not consider the macroscopic or microscopic changes on the filter media. The research is primarily concerned with the loss of filtration effciency due to chemicals. The research provides a comprehensive, yet conclusive data on the effect of organic vapors on the electret filter media.