Influence of Artificial Negative Air Ion Generation on Atmospheric Ion Concentration and Air Quality in a Semi–Urban Region: A Study in Palus (17.0976° N, 74.4496° E), India

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ABSTRACT

Atmospheric air ions are fundamental components of the Earth’s electrical environment, continuously generated and depleted through natural and anthropogenic processes. Their distribution near the surface is governed by complex interactions involving atmospheric turbulence, aerosol pollution, radioactivity, and biological activity such as plant transpiration. This study examines the effect of an artificial negative air ion (NAI) generator on ion concentrations and pollution dynamics in Palus (17.0976° N, 74.4496° E), a semi-urban area in India. Measurements were conducted using a Gerdien-type air ion counter, designed and developed indigenously at the Physics Department of Arts, Commerce, and Science College, Palus. The study spanned 33 days in 2024, with data recorded at 30-second intervals to capture fine temporal variations. The findings demonstrate that aerosols significantly reduce atmospheric ion concentrations through ion-aerosol attachment, thereby diminishing electrical conductivity. In environments with high aerosol loading, naturally occurring negative ions exhibit reduced attachment efficiency, leading to lower negative ion concentrations. However, the deployment of an NAI generator substantially increased negative ion counts, peaking at 4.75×10² ions/cm³, while simultaneously suppressing positive ions to a minimum of 0.1×10² ions/cm³. This shift in ion balance correlated with a measurable reduction in the pollution index, suggesting potential benefits for air quality improvement in polluted settings. This research provides empirical evidence for the role of artificial ionization in modifying local ion-aerosol interactions, with implications for atmospheric science and pollution control strategies. Future studies should explore long-term effects, seasonal variations, and the scalability of NAI technology in diverse environmental contexts.

Significance of the Study:

The study establishes artificial negative ionization as a viable tool for atmospheric modification in polluted semi-urban areas. By precisely quantifying ion concentration changes and their correlation with air quality improvements, it offers scientific validation for ionization-based pollution control strategies. The findings have practical implications for developing affordable air purification systems and inform policies on environmental health interventions. This work advances understanding of ion-aerosol dynamics while providing a methodological framework for future research on atmospheric electricity applications in developing regions.

Summary of the Study:

This study examines the impact of artificial negative air ionization on atmospheric ion concentrations in Palus, India’s semi-urban environment. Using an indigenous Gerdien counter, measurements revealed that negative ion generators increase negative ions (peaking at 4.75×10² ions/cm³) while suppressing positive ions (minimum 0.1×10² ions/cm³). Results demonstrate enhanced ion-aerosol interactions, reducing the pollution index. The research provides quantitative evidence of ionization technology’s effectiveness in modifying atmospheric electrical properties and improving air quality under real-world conditions, bridging gaps between atmospheric physics and environmental applications.