Overhead AC powerlines and rain can alter the electric charge distribution on airborne particles-Implications for aerosol dispersion and lung deposition

Corona ions from high voltage power lines (HVPL) can increase electrostatic charge on airborne pollutant par-ticulates, possibly increasing received dose upon inhalation. To investigate the potential increased risk of childhood leukemia associated with residence near alternating current (AC) HVPL, we measured the particle charge state and atmospheric electricity parameters upwind, downwind and away from HVPL. Although we observed noticeable charge state alteration from background levels, most HVPL do not significantly increase charge magnitude. Particular HVPL types are shown to have most effect, increasing net charge to 15 times that at background. However, the magnitude of charge alteration during rainfall is comparable with the most extreme HVPL measurement. On current evidence, based on the current adult lung model, we suggest that although charge is sometimes enhanced to levels which may alter atmospheric particle dynamics, increased lung depo-sition is unlikely.

Automated summary

There is a possibility that corona ions from high voltage power lines can increase the electrostatic charge on airborne pollutant particles, which may lead to an increased dose upon inhalation. However, most high voltage power lines do not significantly increase the charge magnitude, except for specific types that can increase net charge up to 15 times that of background levels. Rainfall can cause charge alteration comparable to the most extreme high voltage power lines measurement. Based on current evidence, it is unlikely that increased lung deposition will occur, considering the current adult lung model.