<p>An electric field applying electrode 15 is disposed in a position opposite to a surface of rotary developing device 4 within an area defined until the surface of the developing device 4 reaches a position of a scratching device 9 after the surface of the developing means passes through a developing area D so as to apply an electric field in a direction in which ions having the polarity opposite to that of toner particles are separated from the surface of the developing means. <IMAGE></p>
