Phase-Doppler interferometry with probe-to-droplet size ratios less than unity. II. Application of the technique

Practical limitations associated with the use of small probe volumes with r espect to the droplet size that is being measured by the phase-Doppler inte rferometry technique are discussed. An intensity validation scheme and corr esponding probe volume correction factor have been developed that reject tr ajectory errors and account for the rejections in calculation of the probe cross-sectional area. The intensity-validation scheme also provides a tract able method of setting the photomultiplier tube gain and laser power. Volum e flux measurements in dilute sprays have shown a significant improvement o ver those made by standard phase-Doppler interferometry techniques at small beam waist/droplet size ratios. OCIS codes: 120.3180,120.4640, 120.5050.