Investigation and practical application of particle sink technology for haze removal: Pilot-scale testing

How to effectively purify fine particles from the atmosphere has always been the key and difficult point in atmospheric pollution prevention and control. This paper reported a new capture technology for haze particles based on the particle sink effect. The capture characteristics of haze particles and haze removal effect were analyzed in detail. The results showed that particulate matter concentrations (PMC) in the spatial area within a radius of 30 m could be reduced by 20%–75% in about one hour unaffected by environmental factors. Up to nearly 10% of haze particles in the outdoor working area were removed by the cooperation of different operation modes of the haze removal device (HRD). Additionally, the influences of wind direction (WD) and wind speed (WS) on the haze removal effect were revealed. The technology offers unique advantages in collecting haze particles and can be applied to alleviate urban haze. [Display omitted] •A new approach based on particle sink effect was developed for haze removal.•Haze particles could be clearly separated whether the HRD standing or moving.•PMC was reduced by 20%-75% within a 30m radius for about 1 hr in a confined space.•The effect range was at least 30m as the HRD worked outdoor under windless.•Up to nearly 10% of the haze particles could be removed in outdoor working area.