A theoretical model is presented to describe inertialess particle deposition onto smooth surfaces under the influence of electrostatic force. Both Boltzmann and combined diffusion and field charging mechanisms are investigated. A modified Fick's law equation accounting for Brownian and turbulent diffusion, spatially-independent external force, i.e. gravitational and Coulombic force, is presented based on the simplified three-layer model. The results show that the concentration boundary layer thickness is very thin and the previous three-layer model can be further simplified. The Coulombic force influences the particle deposition significantly and for considerably high charge and electric field, deposition is independent on turbulent intensity. The model predictions agree very well with the literature DNS results. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.