Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for the separation of a feedstock stream comprising a principle component and at least one secondary component such that at least one component has greater friability that the others using a rotary impact separator. The methods allow the recovery of two or more streams, one rich in the more friable component, and one lean in the more friable component.

Abstract: Methods and equipment for the recycling of carpet are disclosed that produce a clean fiber product suitable for industrial use. The methods allow the recovery of face fiber material, for example a polyester, polyolefin, or a polyamide, from carpets that includes a face fiber material, a polypropylene backing material, and an adhesive, and include the steps of mechanically impacting the carpet to break the bonds between the adhesive and the fibrous components, treating the fibrous components to remove adhesive granules from the fibrous components, and optionally separating the polypropylene backing from the face fiber. A clean adhesive/calcium carbonate product can also be produced from this process.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for treating a mixture of fiber and granules are provided. The method includes passing the mixture through a friction zone comprising a conveyor belt that moves mixture and a friction device comprising a stationary surface in contact with a surface of the mixture. The method includes applying pressure to the mixture with the friction device to generate friction such that at least 5% of the fiber in the mixture is rotated. The method includes forming an agglomerate that is larger than the granules in the mixture.

Abstract: Methods of amending soil to improve porosity and reduce compaction are provided. The method includes providing a carpet product. The method further includes separating the carpet product into fiber and granules. The method also includes adding the granules to the soil. The method can also include impacting the carpet product with a rotary impact separator. The method can also include impacting the carpet product with a hammer mill.