A CPC operates by condensing vapor onto nanoparticles to grow them into sizes that can be easily detected by optical means. The basic principle involves three main steps:
1. Saturator: The aerosol sample is introduced into the CPC, passing through a region where it is saturated with a working fluid such as butanol. 2. Condensation: The saturated aerosol then moves into a cooler environment, causing the working fluid to condense onto the nanoparticles. 3. Detection: The enlarged particles are then counted using an optical detector, typically a laser light scattering method.
