Multi-Jet Mode Electrospray for Non-Conducting Fluids Using Two Fluids and a Coaxial Grooved Nozzle

Abstract

The development of electrospray technique is restricted due to main drawbacks, mainly because it is restricted to electrically conducting liquids and to low throughputs. To overcome these limitations, we have developed a multi-jet electrospray technique for non-conducting fluids. To obtain stable multi-jet operation, a grooved coaxial nozzle was employed to enhance the exterior electrical field. The multi-jet coaxial electrospray mechanism is identical to a single cone-jet coaxial electrospray, and multi-jet operation for a non-conducting fluid has the same features as a single cone-jet for a conducting liquid. The droplet size can be controlled by adjusting the flow rates, and the droplets monodisperse with good stability and uniformity.