Electrostatic

The application of an electric field to a liquid jet emerging from an orifice has two consequences: the attraction of the liquid to the oppositely charged electrode, and the reduction in apparent surface tension due to the electrostatic pressure of surface charges opposing the surface tension pressure (figure 18 ). Another possible effect for certain liquids is the effective reduction in surface tension due to the orientation of molecules on the surface. Electrostatic pressure is greatest at the end of the liquid jet or drop exiting the orifice.

Under the effect of an electric field, the jet exiting the orifice lengthens and refines, making it easier to detach drops. Depending on the relative...