Simultaneous Removal of Fine Particles and VOCs by a Two-Stage Electrostatic Precipitator Based on Sawtooth-Rod Electrode Discharge Charging

• • At +12 kV sawtooth-rod and -8.5 kV plate-plate voltages, the two-stage ESP achieved 91% collection efficiency for fine particles (<0.3 µm) and >98% total particle collection, outperforming conventional needle-plate commercial purifiers. • • Toluene degradation efficiency increased from 29.2% to 53.1% when particles were introduced, demonstrating a synergistic effect that enhances VOCs removal in real catering fumes. • • Positive DC discharge on the sawtooth-rod electrode produced a corona current of 800 µA versus 375 µA for negative polarity, while reducing ozone concentration from 176.9 mg/m³ to 101.4 mg/m³, indicating better energy efficiency and lower secondary pollution. • • The sawtooth-rod electrode's stable discharge characteristics reduce sparkover frequency and maintenance downtime, supporting the development of energy-efficient, compact, and intelligent ESP systems for catering fume purification.