Apparatus for coating a surface with individual particles

A coating apparatus for applying a monolayer layer of particles to a receiving surface. The apparatus comprises a pressurized air source 104; an application chamber 112 partially bounded by the receiving surface 108 into which an air stream is delivered by the air source 104 through a nozzle 106; an air return path for returning air from the application chamber 112 to an intake of the air source to form an air circulation loop; a dosing device 120 for introducing particles to be coated onto the receiving surface into the air circulation loop; and a particle deflector 132 being positioned in the path of the air stream to break up agglomerated particles carried by the air stream prior to coating the receiving surface with the particles. The application chamber 112 may be surrounded by a bell housing and include brushes for brushing the receiving surface to leave only a single layer of particles, wherein the receiving surface may be an endless belt. A method of applying a layer of particles is also provided, as well as printing systems benefiting from the present coating apparatus.