Removing ions from liquid streams - by passing through tubular vessels and applying an electric field normal to the direction of flow

摘要

Ions are removed from a fluid stream by allowing the fluid to flow in such a manner into a non-conducting (pref. tubular) chamber that it completely fills it. An electric field is applied normal to the direction of flow over a sufficient length of the chamber to effect a sepn. of ions from the fluid. The flow is then divided so as to obtain one ion-paper or -free fluid stream and one ion-enriched fluid stream. The method is useful for desalting seawater and/or industrial effluents as well as to reduce the acid content of fruit juices and wines. Plant costs and upkeep are reduced.