Design Basics
A first step is to understand the current state-of-knowledge. Parameters from existing and past DPF experiments were collected in a database:
Each dot on a graph is a different DPF. The first two plots guide the design of new devices, and the third estimates performance.
With this information in hand, the next job is to build one:
Pulsed energy storage: about 50 Joules at 15 kilovolts.
Made it down to operating pressure with a small vacuum pump.
The phone camera is too slow, but does its best.
Did it work?
Impossible to know without better diagnostics, but probably not: the insulator between the inner and outer electrodes was substandard and the connection to the power system was not optimized.
Regardless, a good learning exercise during lockdown. Work on a research-ready version is underway.