Characterization of a Prototype Compact High Gradient Magnetic Separator Device for Blood Detoxification

Abstract

A prototype compact magnetic separator device for human blood detoxification was characterized using blood-mimicking fluid (ethylene glycol-water solution) as well as whole blood. Magnetic separation at various applied magnetic fields (0.125, 0.33, and 0.44 T) and various flow rates (3.1–29.5 ml/min) showed that the device could efficiently separate magnetic spheres from blood-mimicking fluid at a moderate applied magnetic field (for example, <0.44 T) and relatively high flow rates (for example, ≤29.5 ml/min). The experiments done in flow circulation systems showed that higher flow rates might shorten the sphere recovery time and accelerate the detoxification process. In vitro separation from flowing blood showed that it is possible to use the device to efficiently recover spheres in a reasonably short time (≤60 min). Moreover, it was also demonstrated that the separator had little effect on the occurrence of hemolysis. All the results revealed that the separator could be a clinically applicable device for efficient separation of magnetic spheres from blood flow for human detoxification purpose.