Devices that generate visible aerosol clouds are employed to visualize and analyze air movement patterns within enclosed environments. These instruments produce a non-toxic, easily dispersed particulate stream, allowing observers to track air currents. For example, these tools can be used to identify drafts around windows or doors, or to assess the effectiveness of ventilation systems in distributing air evenly throughout a room.
The application of this method offers significant advantages in various fields. It enables the identification of potential contamination pathways in cleanrooms, facilitates the optimization of HVAC system designs for energy efficiency, and aids in verifying the proper functioning of exhaust systems in industrial settings. Historically, simpler techniques, such as observing dust motes in sunlight, were used to infer air movement; however, modern aerosol-generating equipment provides a far more precise and controllable means of visualizing airflow.