Numerical analyses of the applicability of Façade integrated electrostatic precipitators in naturally ventilated residential buildings

This study proposes a façade integrated electrostatic precipitator (FIEP) system to remove particulate matter (PM) of outdoor origin in naturally ventilated buildings. In this study, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations were conducted to estimate the particle collection efficiency by comparing the particle mass flow rates at the openings of the outer and inner façade. The (1) installation position of the discharge electrode, (2) operation mode of the opening in the facade, and (3) wind speed were varied in the simulations carried out. The results obtained suggest that due to the airflow characteristics in the intermediate space of the façade, the installation position of the discharge electrode significantly influenced the particle collection efficiency. The operation mode, however, had an insignificant effect on the particle collection efficiency. The highest particle collection efficiency (56.8%) was achieved at low wind speeds.