Spray

Spray refers to a dispersion of liquid droplets suspended in air. The droplets vary in size from fine mists to larger droplets, depending on the rate, pressure, and nozzle design. Sprays are produced by forcing liquid through an orifice and imparting energy to break the liquid into droplets, a process known as atomization. The term can describe the dispersed liquid or the equipment used to generate it.

Atomization methods include hydraulic (high-pressure liquid through a small orifice), pneumatic (using compressed air), and ultrasonic techniques. Nozzle geometry, pressure, and liquid properties determine droplet size distribution and spray pattern. Common patterns include full cone, hollow cone, and flat fan, which affect coverage and penetration in application areas such as coating or irrigation.

Sprays have broad applications. In industry, spray systems enable painting, coating, cooling, and cleaning. In agriculture, spray equipment delivers pesticides and fertilizers. In consumer and health care, spray bottles dispense cleaning products and medications, while inhalers and nasal sprays deliver drugs as aerosols. Fire suppression and humidification systems also rely on spray or mist delivery.

Health, safety, and environmental considerations include inhalation risks from aerosols, drift and environmental contamination, and the need for appropriate containment, personal protective equipment, and regulatory compliance. Droplet size, spray pressure, and nozzle selection are optimized to balance effective delivery with minimizing unintended exposure.