A method and apparatus for contaminant separation utilizes an interleaved
array of oppositely charged electrode plates for fluid treatment. Spacing
between the parallel electrode plates is graduated so that the volume of
the cavities between the opposing electrodes provides varying levels of
treatment of a broad range of contaminants from a variety of fluid
columns. A fluid flow path extending substantially orthogonal to the
direction of the electrical field established between opposing electrode
plates provides a feed stream with exposure to the varying levels of
electrical charges between the electrode plates. The method and apparatus
provide an effective means of contaminant separation by a device having a
small footprint and requiring low amounts of electrical energy.
