Apparatus and a method for recycling of structural materials

A method of separating a plastic-based insulation material from a concrete-based constructional element to which the insulation material is attached, the method comprising:

• providing an apparatus for separating the insulation material from the constructional element to which the insulation material is attached, the apparatus comprising at least one fluid jetting device which is in fluid communication with a pressure-generating device to produce a fluid jet with a pressure sufficient to release the insulation material from the constructional element;
• motion means for providing relative motion between the at least one fluid-jetting device and the constructional element, wherein the at least one fluid-jetting device is connected to a chamber arranged to at least partially enclose a portion of the constructional element, and wherein a jetting direction of the at least one fluid-jetting device is directed inwards in the chamber;
• bringing at least the portion of the constructional element with the insulation material into the chamber comprising the at least one fluid-jetting device;
• generating a relative movement between the apparatus and the constructional element via the motion means and bringing fluid under pressure from the at least one fluid-jetting device against the insulation material so that the insulation material is released from the constructional element;
• and
• collecting the released insulation material by a collecting means connected to the chamber, and bringing the constructional element out of the chamber separately from the released insulation material.