The Applied Electrostatics Research Centre (AERC) at
the University of Western Ontario provides
research and development and consulting services to assist industry in the development of
better
techniques for using electrical forces to propel fine particulate matter along predefined
trajectories.
Researchers investigate the industrial application of electrostatic forces as well as
electrostatic
hazards and nuisances. Some typical applications are crop spraying, painting,
air cleaning, mineral separation, electrophotography and hazard detection and prevention.
Facilities include laboratories equipped with high voltage generation apparatus and
equipment for measuring and analyzing the electrical properties of small solid and liquid
particles. Special interests include electric and magnetic field analysis and
electromagnetic interference. Many of the projects undertaken have an industrial sponsor.
