A device for separating ions from a fluid stream is disclosed. The device
includes multiple chambers in fluid communication with one another. A
first chamber has an inlet, and a last chamber has an outlet. The inlets
and outlets of intermediate chambers are connected to one another so that
fluid flows in a circular pattern through each chamber. A magnetic field
extends through the chambers perpendicular to the flow. The magnetic
field induces a force on the ions, moving ions of one polarity to ward
the center of the chambers and ions of the opposite polarity toward the
periphery of the chambers. Each chamber has an outlet for drawing fluid
from the chamber center. The circulation direction reverses in each
chamber allowing both positive and negative ions to exit via the outlets.
Fluid of reduced ion concentration exits the outlet channel.