Growth analysis of the particle layer in a small-scale ESP with biomass combustion.

This study presents experimental results of the particle layer growth with the operation of a small-scale ESP as a flue gas cleaning method from domestic biomass combustion. The retention efficiency of the ESP is maintained above 90% for 40 h of operation, which is in agreement with its natural regeneration by partial collapses of the dust layer. The measurements of profile and thickness of the dust layer endorse the aforementioned collapses as discontinuous re-entrainment events that are also identified as abrupt peaks on the particle concentration at the outlet of the ESP and drops on the current values. • The thickness and profile of the accumulation of particles on the collection electrode of a small-scale ESP were measured. • The small-scale ESP efficiently reduces particle emissions, especially in the coarse fraction. • The re-entrainment of particles naturally regenerates the ESP, providing a constant retention efficiency. • Partial collapses of the dust layer are identified as increases of particle emissions and simultaneous current drops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]