A converter which transforms the dynamic energy of a gaseous fluid into electric energy by passing through an electrostatic field a gas that contains electrically charged particles.

The action is similar to that of a Van de Graaff generator, but higher power density can be obtained.

A Van de Graaff generator is a type of electrostatic generator used to build up static electrical charge of very high voltages by transferring electric charge from a power supply to a spherical metal terminal.

A high-voltage source transfers an electric charge to a nonconducting conveyor belt, usually made of silk or rubber, which continuously redeposits the charge on the insulated metal terminal, where it accumulates.

Even small Van de Graaff generators can accumulate a static charge of 100,000 volts; the largest, up to ten million volts.