A generic electrospray classification

One of the major unknown factors when working with electrosprays is the precise spraying mode that is obtained when operating an electrospray. However, as the spraying mode determines to a significant extent the properties of the obtained particles, knowing the spraying mode is crucial for many applications. Currently the spraying modes presented in the literature are defined based on optical observations of the liquid meniscus. In a laboratory set-up this approach works fine but in many other situations such an approach is not feasible. For this reason a different approach is developed which uses measurements of the current through an electrospray system to determine the spraying mode of the system. These measurements are relatively simple and can be implemented cost effectively. Although not all spraying modes can be distinguished using this approach, the spraying modes used in most applications can be identified. •A new, generic electrospray spray mode classification is presented.•The classification is independent of material properties and geometries.•The current through the system is used instead of optical observations.•It is shown that simple measurements suffice to determine many electrospray modes.