Abstract: A method and apparatus in which fibrous waste is processed under initial over-pressure conditions is disclosed. Once the fibrous waste has been loaded into an autoclave, a compressor pressurizes the chamber, following which caustic swelling and debonding solution is injected into the chamber. In a further embodiment, a caustic solution is introduced into the fiber slurry output from an initial separation stage, following which negative pressure is maintained for a period of time chosen to enhance the desired debonding. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, de-inking solution is introduced into an initial fibrous waste processing stage which operates at super- or sub-atmospheric pressure.

Abstract: A method and apparatus in which fibrous waste is processed under initial over-pressure conditions is disclosed. Once the fibrous waste has been loaded into an autoclave, a compressor pressurizes the chamber, following which caustic swelling and debonding solution is injected into the chamber. In a further embodiment, a caustic solution is introduced into the fiber slurry output from an initial separation stage, following which negative pressure is maintained for a period of time chosen to enhance the desired debonding. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, de-inking solution is introduced into an initial fibrous waste processing stage which operates at super- or sub-atmospheric pressure.