Experiment and numerical simulation on the fine particle migration behaviors for the collection efficiency enhancement of a wire-plate electrostatic precipitator in pig house

•Comprehensive model of PM2.5 collection in a wire-plate ESP was developed using MATLAB and COMSOL.•Model used to simulate various ESP designs and find best one for poultry PM removal.•Validation performed by testing prototype ESP in visual experimental platform with MRI as PM2.5.•Model predicted values of potential distribution, u distribution, and η are in good agreement with the previously reported experimental data.•Experimental results indicate that η of 2.0 μm is 100% at u = 1 m/s, V = 50 kV.