What are the primary principles of particulate air filtration?

The primary principles of particulate air filtration revolve around the mechanisms that physically capture and remove solid particles from the air stream. The correct answer highlights mechanical filtration, electrostatically charged media, and electronic air cleaners as key components in effective particulate air filtration.

Mechanical filtration refers to the physical blocking of particles by a filter medium. This type of filtration relies on the size of the particles being larger than the openings in the filter material, allowing clean air to pass while capturing contaminants like dust, pollen, and other particulate matter.

Electrostatically charged media enhance the filtration process by attracting and capturing smaller particles that might otherwise pass through standard mechanical filters. The electrostatic charge helps to improve the efficiency of the filtration system by increasing the likelihood that particles will adhere to the filter material.

Electronic air cleaners utilize electrical means to charge particles in the air, causing them to stick to oppositely charged surfaces rather than remaining airborne. This method also targets smaller particulate matter and can improve indoor air quality significantly.

The other options focus on principles that do not mainly address particulate filtration. For instance, chemical filtration and vapor absorption deal with gases and vapor, while gravity settling and thermal management relate to broader air quality control rather than the specific mechanisms for particulate matter. Likewise, sound waves, ultraviolet