Fluid separation devices and methods of making same

Abstract

Embodiments of this invention include pressure differential barrier members for separating selected substances from fluid, gaseous and/or liquid, and methods of making same. They include separation material which, with respect to the fluid to be treated, is pervious and exhibits desired separation capabilities. They may also, at least in part, include material which is substantially impervious to the fluid. They include bridges spanning flow paths to form lateral flow paths, and they may also include flow paths that are unbridged. All flow paths through such embodiments are either through structural elements which themselves have desired separation capabilities or are occupied by separation material that is pervious to the fluid being treated and is of such desired characteristics. By this means, it is possible to finely control structural parameters of the device and therefore the results of the process of separation which are affected by them, such as the separation media surface area presented to the fluid, the volume of separation material through which the fluid may pass, and whether and the extent to which the fluid passes transversely through the separation material or flows linearly along relatively long channel passageways therein.