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, the apparatus further comprising motion means for providing relative motion between the fluid-jetting device and the constructional element, wherein the 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 fluid-jetting device is directed inwards in the chamber;
• bringing at least a 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 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.