Lewis R said:I am interested in buying or making an electret - preferably the oriented dipole version - not the probably more common real or surface charge version. I have read about the old procedure of making an electret from a mixture of beeswax, carnuba wax and rosin, but I think that by now there must be newer materials and procedures that produce better and longer-lasting electrets. Any thoughts? Thanks
An electret is a type of material that has a permanent electrical charge. This charge is created through a process called polarization, where the material is exposed to an electric field and then cooled to retain the charge.
The main difference between buying and making an electret is the level of control over the properties of the material. Buying an electret means you are purchasing a pre-made material with set properties, while making an electret allows you to customize the charge and other characteristics of the material.
To make an electret, you will need a material that can hold a permanent charge, such as certain types of plastic or ceramic. The material is then exposed to an electric field and heated, followed by a cooling process to retain the charge. The exact process may vary depending on the material and desired properties.
Electrets have a wide range of applications, including in microphones, loudspeakers, air filters, and electrostatic generators. They are also commonly used in medical equipment, such as defibrillators and pacemakers.
Yes, it is important to follow proper safety precautions when working with electrets, as they can generate high levels of static electricity. This may include using gloves and protective gear, as well as grounding tools and equipment to prevent electric shock.