search
Get Started
search
Frederick Gardner Cottrell - Inventor
zoom_in Click to enlarge

Frederick Gardner Cottrell

description Frederick Gardner Cottrell Overview

Frederick Gardner Cottrell was an American physical chemist best known for inventing the electrostatic precipitator, a device that removes particulate matter from industrial exhaust gases using electric charges. He patented the technology in 1907, and it became widely adopted in power plants, smelters, and cement factories to reduce air pollution. To support scientific research, Cottrell helped establish the Research Corporation for Science Advancement in 1912, using patent royalties to fund academic scientists.

help Frederick Gardner Cottrell FAQ

What did Frederick Gardner Cottrell invent?

Frederick Gardner Cottrell invented the electrostatic precipitator. The device removes particulate matter from industrial exhaust by using electric charges.

When did Cottrell patent the electrostatic precipitator?

Cottrell patented the technology in 1907. It later became widely used to reduce particle pollution from industrial emissions.

How does an electrostatic precipitator remove particles?

It electrically charges particles in an exhaust stream and then attracts them to oppositely charged collection surfaces. This separates dust and other fine material from the gas before it leaves the equipment.

What field did Frederick Gardner Cottrell work in?

Cottrell was an American physical chemist. His invention applied electrical and chemical principles to industrial pollution control.

Reviews & Comments

Write a Review

rate_review

Be the first to review

Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.

Save to your list

Save your favorites and follow how their scores change over time.

Save favorites
Track changes
Compare scores

Already have an account? Sign in

Compare Items

See how they stack up against each other

Comparing
VS
Select 1 more item to compare