Abstract: A system and method for liberating different materials in recyclable material streams is provided. A material stream is introduced into an adjustable dwell time shredder. The dwell time of the shredder is adjustable by rotating the shredder from a first position to a second position, thereby changing the migration rate of objects within the shredder. The liberation of materials is not dependent on the ability of the shredder to reduce materials to a certain granule size in order to pass through a grate or screen. The dwell time of the shredder may be adjusted during operation of the shredder.