This paper argues the applicability of two-dimensional simulations for a better understanding of the depth filtration mechanism and, in particular, the relationship between the electrostatic attractive force acting on particles and filtration performance. Physical characteristics of the filter media are that it has a porous structure, which allows fluids to pass through and retains particles, and is assumed to be deformed according to the interaction with fluids and particles. The flexible porous structure is modeled using “trapping particles” with spring and dashpot that can be charged electrically as well in this study. After confirming that computations of electric potential profiles are in good agreement with one-dimensional analytical solutions, depth filtration is simulated numerically both without and with the effect of the electrostatic field during the process. As a result, it is indicated that the moving particles can be retained by the flexible porous structure in the particle-liquid separation process.
